Washington, D.C. — August  21, 2024 The 2024 Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Conference is proud to announce the distinguished recipients of this year's awards, celebrating outstanding contributions in the field of caregiving, aging, and disability advocacy. The conference, a cornerstone event for professionals and advocates, continues to recognize those who have made significant strides in improving the lives of individuals and communities across the nation.

Arthur Flemming Award: National Center to Reframe Aging

The Arthur Flemming Award, named after the esteemed public servant known for his commitment to public health and aging, is awarded to the National Center to Reframe Aging. This organization has been at the forefront of reshaping societal perceptions of aging, promoting a positive, inclusive, and forward-thinking narrative. Their innovative approaches and impactful campaigns have contributed to a cultural shift, emphasizing the value and contributions of older adults in society.

“The National Center to Reframe Aging is honored to be the recipient of the Arthur Flemming Award. We are grateful for this acknowledgement of the Center’s impact since being established as the central hub for the movement to reframe aging. It is a great privilege to receive an award named after Dr. Flemming. who dedicated many years to public service — advocating for the dignity and rights of older adults and justice for all people.”

• National Center to Reframe Aging

Katie Beckett Award: Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton

The Katie Beckett Award, named in honor of the young girl whose story led to critical Medicaid reforms, is awarded to Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton. Congresswoman Wexton has been a powerful advocate for individuals with disabilities, ensuring that their voices are heard in the halls of government. Her leadership and commitment to policies that expand access to care and support for disabled individuals have made a profound impact, earning her this prestigious recognition.

“I’m honored to be recognized with the Katie Beckett Award here at the Home and Community Based Services conference. I’m proud to use my unique platform in Congress to be a voice for greater accessibility protections and respect for Americans of all abilities. I hope that when people see me continuing to do all I can to keep living my life and doing this job I love as best I can, they understand and appreciate the courage, resilience, and spirit that so many people of differing abilities or battling severe health issues like mine demonstrate each and every day. I want to thank the HCBS conference and all of the remarkable advocates here for this humbling recognition and for all you do in the fight for disability rights.”

• Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton

Jeanette Takamura Award: The John A. Hartford Foundation

The Jeanette Takamura Award, named after the trailblazing former Assistant Secretary for Aging, is awarded to The John A. Hartford Foundation. This foundation has been a driving force in improving the care of older adults through strategic grantmaking, fostering innovations in the aging field, and building partnerships that elevate the quality of care. Their dedication to advancing the well-being of older adults, family caregivers, and direct care workers aligns seamlessly with the values and mission of the HCBS community.

“This evening we honored three remarkable awardees.  The Center to Reframe Aging’s work has reshaped how society views creating a more inclusive and respectful narrative for older adults.  Congresswoman Wexton’s courageous leadership and personal commitment to disability rights have set a powerful example for us all.  And The John A. Hartford Foundation’s decades of strategic investments and advocacy have empowered countless organizations.” Shared Martha Roherty, Executive Director of ADvancing States.

“We are profoundly honored to receive the Jeanette Takamura Award from ADvancing States, our grantee and partner in working to ensure that all of us can age well, with the state government support and services we need,” said Terry Fulmer, PhD, RN, FAAN, president of The John A. Hartford Foundation. “Our foundation also worked with the esteemed Dr. Takamura for many years, which makes this honor even more meaningful. Thank you, ADvancing States.”

About the HCBS Conference

The HCBS Conference is a premier annual event that brings together professionals, policymakers, advocates, and caregivers from across the country to discuss the latest developments, best practices, and innovations in home and community-based services. The conference is committed to advancing the field by highlighting exemplary contributions and fostering a collaborative environment for knowledge sharing and growth.

For more information, please contact: [email protected]