Montgomery County Commission on Aging Honors Three Organizations with the ‘Austin Heyman Community for a Lifetime’ Award

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, February 11, 2026

The Montgomery County Commission on Aging recently honored three local organizations with the 2025 Austin Heyman Community for a Lifetime Award. The award is named for Austin Heyman, a longtime advocate who worked for decades to improve the lives of older adults in Montgomery County and was a former chair of the Commission. The award recognizes organizations whose work helps ensure Montgomery County remains a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive community for residents of all ages.  

Established in 1974 under the Older Americans Act, the Commission on Aging advises the County Executive and County Council on the needs and interests of older adults. The Commission selected honorees for their sustained commitment to helping older adults live independently and with dignity, regardless of income, ability, or background. 

"Montgomery County is an AARP Age-Friendly community, where aging with dignity, independence, and strong social connections is a priority," said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. "This achievement is not accidental. It results from our dedicated investment in programs and organizations committed to this cause. Montgomery Connects, Holiday Park Seniors, and Maryland Senior Olympics are just a few of the key organizations that support our older adults. I am grateful to the Commission on Aging for recognizing these partners who contribute to making Montgomery County a thriving community for residents of all generations."

(Pictured left to right: Mitsuko Herrera, Montgomery Connects; Joyce Dubow, Holiday Parks Seniors, Inc.; David Schardt, Maryland Senior Olympics; and Linda Bergofsky, Commission on Aging)

The following organizations received the 2025 Austin Heyman Community for a Lifetime Award: 

• Montgomery Connects, the County’s digital equity program, is operated by the County’s Department of Technology and Enterprise Business Solutions. They were recognized for their efforts to bridge the digital divide by expanding broadband access, distributing devices, and providing digital literacy training to residents most in need. The program helps participants use technology for telehealth, employment, and everyday activities, and collaborates with community partners, including Senior Planet Montgomery, to advance digital equity. 

• Holiday Park Seniors, Inc. was honored for its positive impact on the well-being of adults aged 55 and older, particularly in the Wheaton and Silver Spring communities. The nonprofit enhances services at the Holiday Park Senior Center by supporting supplemental recreation programs and creating opportunities for social connection, lifelong learning, and volunteer engagement. Through educational programs, a community garden, and an emergency medical device loaner program, the organization helps older adults stay active, socially connected, and supported in their community.  

• Maryland Senior Olympics received the award for promoting health, wellness, and civic engagement among residents aged 50 and older through inclusive athletic competition. Guided by its motto, “To participate is to win,” the organization works to reduce barriers to participation and encourages lifelong physical activity and social connection.  

Montgomery County Commission on Aging noted that these organizations reflect the efforts of community groups and nonprofits across Montgomery County that support the growing older adult population. 

For more information about the Montgomery County Commission on Aging and resources for older adults, visit the DHHS section of the Montgomery County Government website. 

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Release ID: 26-046
Media Contact: Peter Sinclair 301-309-7550
Categories: Award, Consumer, Education, Health, Senior