FULTON – Oswego County Opportunities (OCO) boasts a volunteer force of more than 1,000 dedicated community members that devote their time and talents each year. In 2023 these volunteers contributed a remarkable 17,988 hours of service. This spirit of volunteerism is what truly allows OCO to continue to help people, support communities and change lives in Oswego County.
While the efforts of all of OCO’s volunteers are exceptional, several volunteers were recognized at the agency’s annual meeting for their willingness to continually go above and beyond and play an integral role in OCO’s ability to deliver services to those in need.
Harry & Sue Wert
The Werts travel together on average 26 miles of rural country roads delivering home delivered meals to isolated seniors two days per week for OCO’s Nutrition program. They have donated more than 3,120 hours and have driven roughly 10,816 miles. The Werts believe in the impact of volunteerism and encourage others to volunteer as well.
Victoria Finkle
Finkle is the chairperson for OCO’s Head Start Policy Council. Her dedication and commitment to OCO went above and beyond when she traveled to the National Parent Engagement Conference in New Orleans. Representing OCO, Finkle exchanged ideas with parents from across the country. A dedicated volunteer Finkle is commitment to making a positive impact on the Head Start Program.
Ruth Plantz
For the past 12 years Plantz has been a valuable asset at OCO’s Phoenix Dining & Activity Center. Plantz’s dedication extends to volunteering during off-hours as she helps with cleaning and organization. “Ruth’s compassion extends beyond the center walls,” said center Manager Deirdre McCarthy. “Ruth befriended a fellow senior in her apartment building struggling with depression. Through her kindness and humor, Ruth built trust and encouraged her new friend to visit the center. Now, they ride the bus together twice a week, and the center has become a source of joy and connection for her friend. Ruth’s warmth and dependability shine through in everything she does.”
Bunny Chimber
For over 12 years, Bunny has woven kindness into the very fabric of the Central Square Bistro, one of OCO’s Dining & Activity Centers. “Bunny’s dedication goes beyond simply volunteering, her time and her compassion extends even further,” said McCarthy. “When a woman from the center underwent brain surgery, Bunny’s willingness to provide rides allowed her to continue attending the Bistro for much-needed socialization and meals. The woman’s gratitude is a testament to the impact Bunny has. The Central Square Bistro is incredibly fortunate to have such a kind and dedicated volunteer in Bunny!”
Penny Foster-Pratt
For the past 10 years Foster-Pratt has donated countless hours to OCO’s fundraising success. “Penny is much more than a dedicated employee, she is a volunteer extraordinaire!” said OCO Fund Development Coordinator Bridget Dolbear. “Penny’s willingness to go the extra mile is unmatched. Her positive spirit and unwavering commitment to her work, family, and community make her an invaluable asset to OCO and everyone she encounters.”
“It’s truly amazing to think about the number of volunteers we have and the amount of time each devotes to helping us achieve our mission of empowering people, supporting the community and changing lives,” said OCO Executive Director Diane Cooper-Currier. “We greatly appreciate each and every one of our volunteers and we can’t thank them enough for all they do for OCO.”
missing or outdated ad config
Be the first to comment