Celebrating Community Spirit In Olney
Every year, GOCA proudly honors the individuals, businesses, and organizations that go above and beyond to make Olney an extraordinary place to live. These awards recognize those who contribute their time, talent, and heart to our shared community — quietly shaping its character and strengthening its future. From civic leaders and dedicated volunteers to inspiring youth and unsung heroes, each award reflects the spirit of service that defines Olney. Explore our award categories and meet the outstanding recipients who help our town thrive.
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Howard J. Garber Citizen of the Year
Kathy Curtis
For the past decade, Kathy Curtis has led the planning and coordination of the Olney Days Parade — the cornerstone event that kicks off the Olney Days celebration. Kathy has brought structure and innovation to the process: streamlining volunteer coordination, securing permits, creating an online program via QR code for environmental impact, and improving parade operations from start to finish. Thanks to her leadership, the community enjoys a safer, more organized, and more sustainable parade. Her efforts also ensure a smooth transition for future coordinators through a well-documented system.
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Contribution to Community Award
Stephen Green
The store manager at Giant Food in Olney is known for his friendly presence and unwavering support for local nonprofits. Under his leadership, the store has hosted community collections, donated supplies to groups like Olney HELP and the Lions Club, and served as a go-to location for Olney Days parking passes. Stephen’s support has enhanced countless events and organizations, helping strengthen the fabric of the Olney community.
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Contribution to Community Award
Noah Leotta
Most people in our area know of the tragic circumstances of Police Officer Noah Leotta. While working on a drunk driving task force in December of 2015 he was struck and killed by a drunk driver. Noah was 24 years old. Prior to this incident, Maryland had some of the country’s weakest penalties for drunk and impaired drivers. Noah’s father Rich, while facing unimaginable pain, has been advocating for stronger laws and ignition interlock systems to be placed in the vehicles of all drunk driving offenders in Maryland. This advocacy led to the passage of Noah’s Law. It took years to pass the bill into law and then patch up loopholes, but Rich’s determination and tenacity have made all the residents of Olney, Montgomery County, and the state of Maryland safer from drunk drivers.
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Youth Contribution to Community Award
Andy Perera
As part of his Eagle Scout project, Andy Perera organized a community-wide effort to retire worn American flags with honor. He built flag collection boxes, coordinated outreach with local businesses, GOCA, and the Olney Rotary, and planned a moving retirement ceremony at the Memorial Day Flags for Our Heroes event. His project united local organizations and residents in a shared act of civic respect and patriotism.
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GOCA Worker of the Year Award
Matt Quinn
As GOCA Vice President, and through many other community leadership roles, Matt has been a driving force in representing the interests of Olney residents. He works closely with local, county, and state officials to address key community needs, advocate for infrastructure improvements, secure vital resources, and ensure that Olney’s voice is heard on the issues that matter most. For over a decade, he has been instrumental in keeping the vision of an Olney Community Center moving forward, and last year, through collaboration with Senator Zucker, this effort finally has brought the project to reality.
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Ron Berger Memorial Olney Heritage Award
Alden English
Since moving to Olney in 1968, Alden English has played a foundational role in shaping the community. From planting trees and developing English Gardens, to founding the Olney Boys Club and actively serving the Sandy Spring Volunteer Fire Department since 1969, Alden’s legacy is one of hands-on service. His deep involvement with Oakdale Emory UMC, his leadership as a firefighter and EMT, and his dedication to local heritage exemplify a lifetime of community commitment.
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Special President’s Award
Maryland State Senator Craig J. Zucker
Since taking office, Senator Craig Zucker has set a new standard for what it means to serve the Olney community. Known for his accessibility, warmth, and responsiveness, he has built deep trust with residents by consistently showing up — not just for events, but in moments when help is truly needed. Whether addressing neighborhood concerns, securing essential services, or simply listening, Senator Zucker is a hands-on leader who treats every issue as personal.
His commitment goes beyond advocacy; he has delivered meaningful results. Most notably, thanks to his leadership and determination, state funding for the long-awaited Olney Community Center has finally been secured — a milestone that turns years of community vision into a reality. Through his actions, Senator Zucker reminds us that public service, when done right, can be both personal and powerful.
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