FULTON — OCO’s Rural Health Network of Oswego County (RHNOC) proudly joins communities across the nation in celebrating National Rural Health Day and recognizing local leaders who are advancing access, equity, and wellbeing across Oswego County.
This year, RHNOC is honored to name Heather Snow, Director of Oswego County Mobility Management, and Wade Smith, Executive Director of Bridge to Hope, as the 2025 Rural Health Champions.
“National Rural Health Day is our chance to honor the people who work every day to remove barriers and make health possible in all corners of our county,” said Joelle Hutson, Coordinator of Health at OCO, and Director of the Rural Health Network of Oswego County. “Heather and Wade represent the very best of the ‘Power of Rural’—they see a need, they act, and they change lives because of it.”
2025 Rural Health Champions
Heather Snow; Director, Oswego County Mobility Management
Heather Snow has reshaped transportation access for rural residents across Oswego County through programs such as the Access bus, ETA program, and Call-A-BUS. Her leadership ensures that residents can reliably get to medical appointments, jobs, school, essential services, and community resources—a barrier that has long limited health access in rural areas.
Known for her compassion, solution-focused mindset, and deep commitment to equity, Heather is described as someone who “goes over and beyond to help everyone she comes in contact with.” Her work has opened countless doors for individuals who once felt restricted by geography, income, or circumstance.
Wade Smith; Executive Director, Bridge to Hope
For ten years, Wade Smith has led Bridge to Hope with humility, consistency, and a community-first approach. Through three long-term residential homes for men in recovery and partnerships with Fruit Valley Orchard, Second Chances, and Farnham Family Services, he has built a holistic model that offers safe housing, job training, emotional support, and community connection.
His organization also operates:
- Second Chances – a free furniture and clothing store
- Cars for Change – low-cost vehicle opportunities for residents
- Foster Life – outreach and support for foster parents
Wade’s impact reaches residents in Hannibal, Fulton, Sterling, and other rural communities where resources are limited. He is known as a “boots to the ground” leader who treats every person with dignity and is always willing to make time—even when he doesn’t have it.
“Our champions this year remind us that rural health is not just about services—it’s about people showing up for one another and doing it with heart,” said Hutson.
Rural Health Champion Nominees
RHNOC also recognizes the following 2025 Rural Health Champion Nominees for their dedication to improving health and quality of life in Oswego County:
- Nicole Ames, Oswego Industries/Arc of Oswego
- Sean Broderick, Fulton Community Basketball, Inc. / Fulton City School District
- Ellen Lazarek, Oswego County Opportunities
- Carol Ireland, Oswego County Opportunities
- Dinah Olson, Oswego County Opportunities
- Elizabeth Halpin, Oswego Health
- Mark Raymond, Farnham Family Services
- Destiny Palmer, Oswego County Opportunities
“These nominees represent the collaboration, creativity, and compassion that define rural health in Oswego County,” said Hutson. “Each one plays a part in building healthier, more connected communities—and we are proud to honor their work.”
OCO’s Rural Health Network of Oswego County (RHNOC) is dedicated to strengthening health and wellbeing across the county through coordinated partnerships and collaborative planning. The mission of the Rural Health Network of Oswego County is to facilitate partnerships and planning that contribute to a healthy and thriving Oswego County. As a program of Oswego County Opportunities (OCO), RHNOC works alongside healthcare providers, community organizations, and local leaders to address the unique needs of rural communities and advance health equity countywide.
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