OCO Honors Eric Bresee

Oswego County Opportunities posthumously recognized Eric Bresee with the agency’s coveted Howard Wilcox Volunteer of the Year award for his volunteer spirit and selfless commitment to OCO. Above from left are OCO Executive Director Diane Cooper Currier, Brayden Bresee, Amy Bresee, and OCO Board President John Zanewych.

Fulton  – Oswego County Opportunities (OCO) posthumously honored Eric Bresee with the agency’s  prestigious Howard Wilcox Volunteer of the Year Award. The award was presented at the agency’s annual meeting held recently at The Eis House in Mexico.

Established in memory of a very special OCO volunteer, the Howard Wilcox Volunteer of the Year Award is presented annually to a volunteer that goes above and beyond in offering their time and talents to an OCO.

Bresee worked for several years at OCO prior to moving on to Farnham Family Services where he served as Executive Director. As his career advanced Bresee’s commitment to volunteerism and OCO never waned. After leaving OCO to become executive director at Farnham Family Services Bresee joined OCO’s board of directors in 2022.

“Eric’s passion and commitment to the community did not end at 5:00 p.m.,” said OCO Board President John Zanewych.” “Eric volunteered countless hours of service to OCO. He attended board and committee meetings and participated in OCO fund raising events and employee recognition ceremonies. Eric donated his time and talents to many community organizations including Farnham Family Services, Peaceful Remedies, and The Desens House to name a few.”

Bresee was passionate about his work and tirelessly advocated for those experiencing homelessness, addiction, and mental illness.

“Eric was driven by a deep desire to make a difference for marginalized individuals,” said OCO Executive Director, Diane Cooper-Currier. “We were fortunate enough to have Eric work with us for several years. He wasa dedicated volunteer and mentor. We are honored to have had Eric serve on our board and grateful for his leadership and unwavering commitment.”

“Eric consistently went above and beyond to provide outstanding volunteer service

to OCO and others to make Oswego County a better place for all,” added Zanewych. “He made a lasting difference in the lives he touched.”

With the assistance of a force of over 1,000 valued volunteers OCO provides more than 50 human services programs that serve approximately 15,000 clients throughout Oswego County.

“We cherish each and every one of our volunteers,” said Zanewych. “We are fortunate to have so many dedicated, energetic, and helpful individuals that make time to help others. With so many valued volunteers it is a challenge to select just one. It’s my honor to posthumously recognize Eric with the 2024 Howard B. Wilcox Volunteer of the Year Award. May we always remember Eric Bresee and what he meant to this community.”

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