Honoring a Legacy of Compassion: The Nancy Martin Award

Each fall, nearly 3,000 people gather at the Marin Senior Fair to celebrate the lives and contributions of older adults. And every year, one moment stands out above the rest: The presentation of the Nancy Martin Outstanding Nonprofit Award. The award recognizes a Marin County nonprofit that has demonstrated “outstanding service to Marin seniors,” a mission that reflects the compassion and community spirit of its namesake, Nancy Martin.

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Nancy Martin’s legacy is woven deeply into the story of The Tamalpais Marin, where she served as Marketing Director for 24 years. Known for her warmth, creativity, and unwavering dedication, Nancy helped shape The Tamalpais into more than just a retirement community; it became a home full of familiar faces and friendly smiles, one marked by connection, kindness, and purpose. Residents who knew Nancy remember a caring leader who made everyone feel seen and valued.

Beyond her work at The Tamalpais, Nancy was also a long-time supporter of the Marin Senior Fair and an active member of its all-volunteer Steering Committee. She poured her heart into helping make the fair a welcoming and joyful event for the older adult community throughout Marin County.

When Nancy passed away suddenly in 2013, her colleagues and fellow volunteers sought to honor her enduring commitment to service. To commemorate her impact, they renamed the Fair’s Nonprofit of the Year honor to the Nancy Martin Outstanding Nonprofit Award.

Each year since, the Marin Senior Fair Steering Committee has selected one nonprofit that embodies Nancy’s legacy of compassion, service, and advocacy for older adults. The award includes a $500 cash prize, a complimentary booth at the Marin Senior Fair, recognition in the Fair Program, and an on-stage award ceremony that shines a light on the honoree’s work.

The 2025 recipient, LITA (Love Is The Answer), received the award for the second time, celebrating its intergenerational programs that foster friendship and reduce isolation among older adults. It’s a fitting tribute, as LITA’s mission of connection and care closely mirrors Nancy’s own approach to community-building both within The Tamalpais and across Marin County.

Over the years, many distinguished organizations have received the award, including 

• Legal Aid of Marin (2024)
• Community Action Marin (2023)
• Margaret Todd Senior Center (2019)
• Alzheimer’s Association – North Bay (2018)
• Hospice By the Bay (2017)

Each represents the collective dedication that Nancy championed, improving lives through service, empathy, and human connection.

At The Tamalpais Marin, Nancy’s influence continues to be felt in the community’s daily rhythm. Her belief that aging should be joyful, purposeful, and connected remains central to the philosophy that guides life at The Tamalpais today. 

Residents and staff alike carry forward her spirit through acts of kindness, lifelong learning, and community engagement, the very essence of Never Stop Growing.

Through the annual Nancy Martin Award, her legacy lives on, reminding everyone that one person’s dedication can inspire generations to care and connect. For The Tamalpais Marin and the broader Marin community, Nancy’s life continues to be a powerful testament to what it means to serve others with heart.