We strive for and celebrate excellence. Excellence is the hallmark of all JCA programs.
JCA has been honored with dozens of local, regional, and national awards, including:
JCA staff members have received frequent honors:
Each year, we present several awards to outstanding individuals and organizations who are making a difference and serving as role models. We are proud to honor those who exemplify the principles of tzedakah (righteous duty) as they strive to improve the world and amplify the benefits of JCA’s work.
Each year since 1994, we have presented The Sylvia & Abe Blajwas Productive Aging Award to shatter limiting stereotypes about aging. This award recognizes an older adult or couple for being a national model of positive aging.
Each year, JCA honors an outstanding volunteer with the Jacqueline Unger Community Service Award.
In some years, we present a Humanitarian Award at the Productive Aging Award Dinner. This award pays special tribute to an outstanding individual or couple whose work embodies the mission and values of our philanthropy.
We acknowledge the extraordinary work of advocates for local seniors with the Advocate for the Aging Award.
Our Heyman Interages Center presents the annual Margaret Cutler Award to honor a champion of Interages’ intergenerational programs.
The Ruth Breslow-Young Staff Award of Excellence has been presented at our Annual Meeting since 1997.
In 2014, JCA collaborated with the Montgomery County Department of Economic Development and its Workforce Investment Board to launch the Experience Counts Awards, spotlighting the good work of local employers on behalf of older workers.
In earlier years, JCA honored the work of extraordinary older volunteers and philanthropists whose work benefited the lives of local seniors and family caregivers. The winners of the Rosalie & Leon Gerber Distinguished Seniors Award were
In September 2021, JCA established the David Gamse Humanitarian Award in recognition of CEO emeritus David Gamse’s extraordinary 30-year career of leadership and service to older adults. The award recognizes an individual in the Washington region who demonstrates a passionate commitment to serving older adults combined with tireless advocacy on behalf of older adult issues.
