CAPE CORAL, Fla. - s4story -- Volunteers of America National Services (VOANS) has named Sarah Richard, executive director of Gulf Coast Village, as its 2026 Executive of the Year through the VOANS Impact Honors Awards program.

The national awards program recognizes individuals whose contributions extend beyond their roles to strengthen lives, support colleagues and create lasting impact in the communities they serve. Richard was among 20 honorees recognized across the organization's housing and health care communities nationwide.

As executive director of Gulf Coast Village, Cape Coral's only life plan community, Richard oversees all campus operations, including independent living, assisted living, memory support, skilled nursing, home health and rehabilitation services. She also leads strategic initiatives, operational improvements and community partnerships that support residents, families and associates.

"What truly distinguishes Sarah is her genuine dedication to residents, families and staff—approaching senior living not simply as a profession, but as meaningful service to others," said Ryan Keller, regional vice president of senior living operations for VOANS. "Her leadership reflects the values of our organization and helps create an environment where residents and associates can thrive."

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A Southwest Florida native, Richard has dedicated her career to serving older adults and strengthening senior living communities. Before joining Gulf Coast Village as executive director in 2025, she served in leadership roles throughout the senior living industry and previously volunteered at Gulf Coast Village as a student.

"I was honored to be recognized as Executive of the Year, but this award reflects the incredible team I have the privilege of working alongside every day," Richard said. "We have an opportunity to honor the legacy of those who came before us while continuing to invest in the future of senior living for generations to come."

In addition to Richard's recognition, five other Gulf Coast Village associates were honored through the VOANS Impact Honors Awards program: Paulette Beaumont, certified nursing assistant; Dulce Bassett, executive chef; Lorenza Aguirre, medical technician; David Badour, housekeeping supervisor; and Lorena Dos Santos Kutz, trained medical assistant. Gulf Coast Village received six of the 20 awards presented through the national recognition program.

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For more information, visit GulfCoastVillage.org (http://www.gulfcoastvillage.org/).

About Gulf Coast Village
Founded in 1989, Gulf Coast Village is the only life plan community in Cape Coral, Florida. Residents enjoy active living in an unparalleled lifestyle of comfort and convenience with a rich array of services and amenities that are focused on living well. The community also offers the security of knowing there is a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, specialized memory support, skilled nursing, home health and rehabilitation services. Gulf Coast Village is located at 1333 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral, FL 33991. For more information, call 239-510-8712 or visit GulfCoastVillage.org (http://www.gulfcoastvillage.org/).