New York State OFA Honors Brian Danforth, Pat and Jim Hogan

By PEYTON CARTER
OTSEGO COUNTY

Three Otsego County residents whose lives have been defined by service were among more than 100 older adults honored by the New York State Office for the Aging during its annual Older New Yorkers’ Day celebration, held May 26 in Albany as part of Older Americans Month.

Among those recognized were Brian Danforth of Unadilla and Pat and Jim Hogan of Cooperstown, whose decades of volunteerism have touched countless lives throughout Otsego County, officials said.

Each year, New York’s 59 county offices for the aging nominate older adults whose volunteerism and civic engagement strengthen their communities. The 2026 theme, “Compassion in Action,” recognizes older New Yorkers whose dedication to service continues to make communities more inclusive, connected and resilient.

This year’s honorees represent nearly one million older volunteers across New York who collectively contribute an estimated 474 million hours of community service each year, with an economic value of more than $13.2 billion, according to NYSOFA.

“Each year, NYSOFA is proud to honor older New Yorkers whose unwavering commitment to service enriches communities throughout our state,” NYSOFA Director Greg Olsen said. “Their experience, economic contributions and civic engagement make a lasting difference in every corner of New York.”

Since moving to Unadilla in 1988 with his wife, Prudence, Brian Danforth has become a cornerstone of his community through his involvement with local organizations, conservation efforts and youth mentorship. He has served as a deacon and elder at Unadilla First Presbyterian Church, helped found the Unadilla Historical Association, serves on the board of the Unadilla Community Foundation, is a member of the Otsego County Soil and Water Conservation District Board, and represents Division IV for the New York Association of Conservation Districts.

However, Danforth’s greatest passion is scouting. An Eagle Scout since 1977, he has spent decades mentoring young people as a den leader, cubmaster, scoutmaster and now pack committee chairman for Troop 1. Through countless camping trips, hikes, and outdoor adventures, he has helped instill leadership, responsibility, and a spirit of service in generations of Scouts.

Beyond his formal leadership roles, Danforth is widely known for helping neighbors whenever needed. Whether it is driving someone to a medical appointment, shoveling snow, moving furniture or assisting with home improvement projects, Danforth is always lending a hand to those in need.

“I like to lead by example,” Danforth said. “If other people see the joy you have in providing service to others, I hope they might be inspired to pitch in and help others in some way. Volunteering is a great way to meet other people, make new friends and make a positive impact in the community.”

Also honored were Cooperstown residents Pat and Jim Hogan, whose volunteer efforts have created opportunities for older adults to connect, socialize, and support one another.

Parents of twin adult sons with Down syndrome, Chris and Tom, the Hogans have spent years giving back to the community that welcomed their family more than two decades ago.

When the Otsego County Office for the Aging partnered with the Otsego County Council of Senior Citizens in 2024 to launch a Men’s Shed program (an international initiative designed to reduce social isolation among older men) the Hogans immediately volunteered their garage and workshop as the program’s home.

Jim helped develop the program by establishing guidelines, organizing volunteers and securing woodworking equipment. Since opening in February 2025, the Men’s Shed has become a weekly gathering place where participants share coffee, conversation, and woodworking projects while building friendships and improving their overall well-being.

Pat supports the program by preparing homemade baked goods and assisting with administrative work. She also volunteers with Connections, a senior socialization program in Cooperstown based out of the Clark Sports Center, and plays a key role in organizing the annual Otsego County Senior Picnic.

“The residents of Otsego County, from day one, welcomed our Down syndrome twins with open arms and, after 25 years, there’s no signs of letting go,” the Hogans said. “How do you pay back those who have been so special to our family? Volunteering in the Connections program has helped us pay back this debt.”

Governor Kathy Hochul, in her proclamation recognizing Older Americans Month, praised older New Yorkers who continue to strengthen their communities through mentorship, civic engagement and volunteer service.

The recognition of Danforth and the Hogans reflects the spirit of this year’s “Compassion in Action” theme, demonstrating how a lifetime of volunteerism can strengthen communities and inspire future generations to serve.