OCO Recognizes its Volunteers

by Contributor | April 28, 2026 9:25 am

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 2025 these volunteers contributed a remarkable 27,192 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, each year, the Executive Committee of the OCO Board of Directors selects one or more of its volunteers to receive the Howard B. Wilcox Volunteer of the Year Award. Named in honor of a longtime OCO volunteer who gave back in powerful ways, even while facing challenges of his own.

This year 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. Each of the following were nominated for the Howard B. Wilcox Award.

Jim and Karen O’Brien

For the past three years Jim and Karen O’Brien have played an important role in OCO’s Nutrition Services’ Home Delivered Meal program. Serving as substitute drivers in the program they are ready in moment’s notice to deliver meals to those that depend on the program. Last year they donated more than 200 hours of volunteer service.

Patricia Williams

 

A volunteer at OCO’s Central Square Dining and Activity Center, known as The Bistro, Williams’ warm smile and work ethic are a welcome addition to The Bistro. Whether working in the kitchen, visiting and playing games with attendees, or ensuring that The Bistro is spotless, Williams respectful nature and her concern for the well-being of attendees at The Bistro makes her a cherished member of OCO’s volunteer team.

Beverly Kelley

The recipient of the 2026 Howard B. Wilcox Award is Beverly Kelley. At 88 years young Kelley is a powerhouse of energy at OCO’s Central Square Dining and Activity Center, The Bistro. She is involved in virtually everything that happens at The Bistro. Kelley’s balance of strength and kindness ensure that the center runs smoothly and feels like home. From driving seniors to medical appointments to mentoring new volunteers her enthusiasm and dedication to The Bistro is inspiring.

“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 Development Coordinator Bridget Dolbear. “We greatly appreciate each and every one of our volunteers and we can’t thank them enough for all they do for OCO.”

Source URL: https://oswegocountytoday.com/community/oco-recognizes-its-volunteers-5/

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