Washington, D.C. — On Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 6:00 pm (EST), the National Hispanic Council on Aging (NHCOA) will bring together community leaders, advocates, policymakers, partners, and supporters for its 2026 Awards Ceremony: “Rising Voices, Leading Change.”
This annual celebration recognizes individuals whose leadership and contributions to advance the well-being, dignity, and opportunities afforded to Latino older adults, families, and caregivers. The event, moderated by Jeff Cruz, Executive Director of Latinos for a Secure Retirement, will feature award presentations, inspiring speakers, live music, dance performances, and other special moments celebrating the people and organizations creating meaningful change in communities nationwide.
This year’s honorees include:
- Representative Adelita Grijalva – President’s Award: For her leadership, commitment to public service, and dedication to advocating for the needs and voices of the communities she serves.
- Representative John Larson – Outstanding Public Policy Award: For his longstanding leadership in public policy and commitment to strengthening economic security and quality of life for older adults.
- Dr. Lucía Crivelli — Research Recognition Award: For her outstanding contributions to research and her work advancing knowledge that supports healthy aging and the well-being of older adults.
- Benjamin Nathanson – Outstanding Community Service Award: For his dedication to community service and his efforts to strengthen connections, support communities, and improve opportunities for older adults and their families.
- Rima Matsumoto – Outstanding Public Health Award: For her contributions to public health and her commitment to promoting health and well-being for older adults and the communities we serve.
This year’s theme, “Rising Voices, Leading Change,” reflects NHCOA’s belief that lasting progress begins when communities are heard, recognized, and included in the decisions that shape their lives. Through advocacy, research, education, and community engagement, NHCOA continues to work to ensure that Latino older adults and their families have the resources, opportunities, and support they need to age with dignity and purpose.
Join us on Facebook Live or YouTube Live on October 29 at 6:00 PM EST and be part of this special celebration as we recognize the voices, leadership, and contributions shaping a stronger future for Latino older adults and their families.
RSVP today!
The Awards Ceremony is NHCOA’s largest fundraising event of the year. Contributions from supporters help sustain NHCOA’s efforts to promote health equity, strengthen communities, advocate for older adults, and connect individuals and families with vital information and resources.
NHCOA is grateful to this year’s sponsors for making the celebration possible: Amgen, AHIP, Alzheimer’s Association, Eli Lilly, PhRMA, Latino Bold Magazine, and Verizon.
About NHCOA:
NHCOA is the leading national organization working to improve the lives of Hispanic older adults, their families, and their caregivers. Headquartered in Washington, DC, NHCOA has been a strong voice dedicated to promoting, educating, and advocating for research, policy, and practice in the areas of economic security, health, and housing for Hispanic older adults, families, and caregivers for the last 51 years.
For more information about NHCOA call 202-347-9733 or visit www.NHCOA.org.
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