Frank Russo, Delaware Sheriff Mills
Win United Way’s Donovan Award
ONEONTA – Frank Russo, Oneonta Family Y executive director, and Delaware County Sheriff Tom Mills were recognized as recipients of the United Way of Delaware & Otsego Counties’ Alan Donovan Award at the 2014 campaign kickoff breakfast yesterday at the Plains at Parish Homestead.
Other nominees – George Allen, Northern Eagle Beverages; Scott Clark of the Clark Companies, Delhi; Scott Davis of Country Club Automotive; John Ray, general manager, Hannaford’s, and Rev. Teressa Sivers, pastor, First United Methodist Church, Oneonta – were also recognized for their dedication to community and the significant impact they have made on the quality of life in the two counties.
The award were presented by board president Sarah Manchester.
Don Benson received special recognition for his years of service to United Way as a board member and volunteer. Jett Industries, Bassett Hospital, New York Central Mutual and Hannaford received certificates and special thanks for their outstanding support for United Way.
Tim McGraw, Campaign Committee co-chair announced this year’s campaign goal of $325,000 to an audience of 50 supporters, including business leaders, employee campaign coordinators and representatives of nonprofit organizations.
Gary Herzig, COO of Opportunities for Otsego, spoke to the group about the impact of United Way’s support on, stressing that the flexibility of United Way funding has allowed OFO to fill in gaps in service. He gave the example of using United Way funds to help low-income families obtain dental care for their preschool children, including examinations and access to treatment for severe dental problems.
Candace Gregory, Director of 2-1-1/ First Call for Help explained the function of 2-1-1, a toll free information and referral help line and gave examples of the kinds of calls handled by the call center, operated out of United Way of Broome County. Manchester emphasized United Way’s commitment to bringing 2-1-1 service to Delaware and Otsego Counties, currently two of the unserved counties in New York State.
Susan Dapkins, interim Executive Director closed the gathering with some observations about the strengths of Delaware and Otsego Counties, specifically the sense of responsibility and willingness to “step up” demonstrated by community leaders, businesses and individuals.