On May 28, The Arc Maryland recognized MIH Community Living Coordinator Sarah Hochbaum with the Community Builder Award for her outstanding service and dedication to advancing inclusive housing opportunities across Maryland during its Annual Statewide Convention and Awards Banquet.
The award is presented annually to individuals who demonstrate outstanding professional service while creating opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to thrive in their communities.
For the past four years, Sarah has been an invaluable member of MIH’s Housing Support Services team, helping nearly 30 individuals secure safe, independent housing of their choice. Her work often involves guiding individuals through complex challenges, including homelessness, while connecting them to critical, time-sensitive resources that can change the trajectory of their lives.
“I am immensely proud of Sarah for receiving this year’s Arc Maryland Community Builder Award,” said MIH Director of Housing Support Services Lauren Silverstone. “Sarah’s compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment continue to make a lasting impact on the individuals and families we serve.”
In addition to her direct support work, Sarah has represented MIH for more than a year on the Horizon Foundation Grantee Service Provider Committee. In this role, she has helped strengthen connections between housing developers and grassroots organizations, ensuring that Marylanders with disabilities are meaningfully included in important housing conversations. She has also played a vital role in educating community partners about MIH’s mission and services, helping to build stronger collaboration throughout the advocacy community.
What truly sets Sarah apart is the compassion, empathy, and dedication she brings to her work every day. Her commitment to supporting individuals and families has remained unwavering, even while navigating the profound personal loss of her husband, Brian Brophy, six months ago. Her resilience and strength during such difficult times speak volumes about her character and devotion to others.
“One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through my work with individuals living with developmental and intellectual disabilities is that affordable, inclusive housing remains one of the greatest barriers to true independence,” said Hochbaum. “Being recognized as a Community Builder by The Arc Maryland is incredibly meaningful to me because it represents progress — even if it’s just a small step — toward advocating for a more inclusive housing system. I’m grateful to be even a tiny piece of the puzzle in creating more housing opportunities for the people we support.”