Each year, Presbyterian Senior Living (PSL) proudly recognizes an individual or group whose volunteer service lifts others, strengthens community, and exemplifies our mission in action. Initiated in 2023, the PSL Altruism Award honors those who enhance the quality of life for others through extraordinary generosity of time, spirit, and compassion.
This year, PSL is delighted to announce the 2026 Altruism Award winner: Kristi Sjoholm-Sierchio, a resident of Glen Meadows in Glen Arm, Maryland. A leader, a giver, a collaborator, and a constant source of encouragement, Kristi has woven service into the very fabric of daily life at Glen Meadows and beyond. Her volunteerism—totaling 1,283 hours in 2025 alone—has left a resounding and lasting impact on residents, team members, and the broader community.
Service Rooted in Faith, Integrity, Compassion
To meet Kristi is to meet someone who serves with purpose. She brings depth, empathy, and a gentle strength to every role she fills—whether chairing the Finance Committee, serving as Secretary of the Independent Living Resident Association, encouraging the Glen Meadows Foundation, or offering a warm presence at daily chapel prayers.
“She lives out her beliefs not only in words,
but through consistent, heartfelt devotion
to loving and serving others
as an expression of her calling,”
Julianne Devaney, Glen Meadows Executive Director
Devaney added, “Her kindness, compassion, and genuine care for people set her apart. She is a shining example of altruism in action.”
Kristi’s service is not limited to Glen Meadows. She volunteers at St. Alban’s Church, participates in community events such as the Amanda Hichkad Walk and the I AM Mentality fundraisers, and lends her time to causes that strengthen health, emotional well-being, and local support networks.
Rebuilding, Reimagining, and Restoring a Culture of Giving
While she serves the community in myriad ways, Kristi made a significant impact when she joined the Glen Meadows Foundation Board. The organization was emerging from the disruptions of the pandemic—an uncertain moment when many community groups were struggling to regain momentum. But Kristi arrived with energy, vision, and a steady, hopeful belief in what the Foundation could become again.
“Kristi has played a transformative role in revitalizing the Glen Meadows Foundation following the pandemic interruption,” shared Devaney. “She led the Foundation to re-establish and strengthen fundraising efforts, restoring momentum during a critical time and inspiring renewed engagement from residents, families, and the wider community.”
Under Kristi’s leadership, the Foundation re‑centered its commitment to service and financial support for residents in need—strengthening the safety net that protects community members facing temporary financial hardship. One of Kristi’s most meaningful accomplishments came in 2025, when she guided the Foundation Board through thoughtful discussion and ultimately to a unanimous decision: to dedicate half of the Foundation’s available funds each year to the Glen Meadows Resident Assistance Fund.
That decision resulted in a $16,000 gift in 2025, followed by a nearly identical amount—just under $17,000—in 2026.
PSL Vice President of Mission Support Bethanie Constant, praised Kristi’s leadership and collaborative spirit: “This accomplishment reflects not only on her skill and dedication but also her ability to unite people around a shared vision.
"Kristi embodies the heart of volunteerism:
selflessness, reliability, and a deep belief
in the power of service.”
This renewed culture of generosity has been unmistakable. Philanthropic giving at Glen Meadows increased dramatically—$10,000 in 2023, to $20,000 in 2024, then doubling again to $40,000 in 2025—demonstrating the power of Kristi’s encouragement, organization, and example.
Bringing Joy Through Small Moments That Matter
While Kristi’s leadership impacts the entire campus, she is equally committed to the personal, joyful touchpoints that make life meaningful for individuals.
Glen Meadows resident and fellow Foundation board member Barbara Ballad shared how much these heartfelt gestures matter.
“Kristi began a Happy Birthday singing group to travel to the Healthcare and Assisted Living neighborhoods, bringing joy and dignity to residents on their special day. She looks upon Glen Meadows as family and always wants the best for them.
“Her work is tireless and non-stop.
Kristi is truly a person who
looks after her fellow man."
Barbara added, "we are very lucky she came to Glen Meadows and joined our family. She is an inspiration to all of us and well deserving of the Altruism Award.”
Every day, Kristi also leads Morning Prayer in the Chapel. Through her presence, Glen Meadows feels more grounded, supported, and spiritually nourished.
Celebrating All of the 2026 Altruism Award Nominees
While Kristi is this year’s honoree, PSL recognizes and deeply appreciates the many individuals and groups across our communities who embody selfless service. Their compassion and dedication reflect the heart of our mission.
Congratulations to Kristi for this honor—and to all the 2026 Altruism Award nominees from across Pennsylvania Senior Living’s communities:
- Mary Ann Furin, Cathedral Village
- Jan Tate, Green Ridge Village
- Mike Vandenberg, Kirkland Village
- Jim Eidson, Pine Run Village
- Aspen Cristini and Tammie Cristini, Presbyterian Home at Williamsport
- Lloyd Forshey, Presbyterian Village
- Lucy Hammann, Quincy Village
- Leora Streams, St. Andrew’s Village
- Pattie Markley, Ware Presbyterian Village
- Village Thrift Store Volunteers, Westminster Village
- Edward Knepp, Westminster Woods
These remarkable nominees enrich the lives of their neighbors and strengthen their communities in countless ways. We celebrate their generosity, kindness, and dedication.