Article about Tamarack Triangle Village in the Montgomery Banner Newspaper!
The Tamarack Triangle Village was recently featured in a January 1, 2026, news article in the Banner Newspaper. An excellent way to begin the New Year!
Summary of the Article
Helping seniors age in place, the Village movement stakes out new ground
By Jack Kiyonaga
The full article is available, with a subscription, at:
The article explores the growing Village Movement, a grassroots, volunteer-based approach that helps older adults age in place by relying on neighbors rather than formal institutions. Originating in Boston in 2002, the movement has expanded nationwide and is gaining momentum in Montgomery County, Maryland, where organizers are now intentionally expanding Villages into less wealthy, more rural, and underserved communities.
Through examples from Boyds and Tamarack Triangle, the article shows how Villages provide practical assistance—like rides, small home tasks, and tech help—while also combating loneliness and social isolation, which are major risks for seniors. Supported by county and state grants, and coordinated through the Montgomery County Villages Consortium, these networks emphasize a “pay-it-forward” model where seniors both give and receive help, strengthening community bonds and independence.
Main Points
- What the Village Movement Is
- A neighborhood-based network of volunteers helping seniors with everyday tasks and social connection so they can remain safely in their homes.
- Focuses as much on reducing isolation as on practical support.
- Why It Matters
- Many seniors prefer aging at home and cannot afford or do not want assisted living.
- Isolation accelerates physical and emotional decline, especially in semi-rural areas.
- Growth in Montgomery County
- 25 existing Villages serve about 8,000 residents with over 900 volunteers.
- Historically concentrated in wealthier, Downcounty areas.
- Nine new Villages are in development, including Boyds, Germantown, Burtonsville, and Washington Grove.
- Shift Toward Underserved Areas
- Organizers are prioritizing communities with fewer transit options, fewer services, and higher needs.
- Boyds is highlighted as a key example due to its isolation and lack of public transportation.
- How Villages Get Started
- Led by local volunteers with guidance from county staff and the Montgomery County Villages Consortium.
- Early steps include small social events to build trust and participation.
- Funding support includes $1.5 million in county grants and $100,000 in state aging-in-place grants.
- Real-Life Impact
- Tamarack Triangle Village shows how Villages foster new friendships, walking clubs, potlucks, and shared services.
- Residents report stronger neighborhood ties and a renewed sense of community.
- Underlying Philosophy
- “Neighbors helping neighbors.”
- A pay-it-forward model where today’s volunteers expect to become tomorrow’s beneficiaries.