Locals honored by state Office for the Aging

May 15—The state Office for the Aging honored 100 older adults from across the state for their volunteerism as part of NYSOFA's annual Older New Yorkers' Day celebration May 14 in Albany, during Older Americans Month.

County offices for the aging and their partner organizations nominated older adults who have made their communities a better place for all through outstanding volunteer and civic engagement efforts, according to a news release.

"Every year, it's an absolute privilege to recognize older New Yorkers who have made their communities a better place through their tireless dedication to serving others," NYSOFA director Greg Olsen said in a statement. "Older adults make a positive impact on every community across our state through their knowledge, economic capital and civic engagement. NYSOFA is honored to highlight their contributions."

He also recognized the 59 county offices for the aging across the state and the Association on Aging in New York for providing and advancing vital services to older adults.

Annually, older adult volunteers in New York contribute 495 million hours of community service at an economic value of $13.8 billion, the news release stated.

Individuals older than 50 account for the most volunteering, philanthropic, entrepreneurial and donation activities in the U.S. out of any demographic group. These older adults contribute $72 billion in state and local taxes — 39% of the total — a contribution that is set to triple to $255 billion by 2050.

Gov. Kathy Hochul established the Master Plan for Aging in November 2022. The plan promotes policies and services to improve the lives of today's older New Yorkers, people with disabilities and individuals of all ages.

Each year since 1963, federal, state and local governments recognize Older Americans Month in May. New York state goes a step further by holding a special observance of Older New Yorkers' Day by collecting nominations of exceptional older adults from county-based offices for the aging.

This year's awardees including residents of Otsego, Delaware and Chenango counties.

* Thomas Hallock, a lifelong resident of Otsego County, has rendered more than five decades of service with the Richfield Springs Fire Department. Joining in 1972, Hallock rose through the ranks, serving in various capacities including as chief. His notable achievement includes pioneering the county's first smokehouse in 1988, credited with saving lives during a house fire. He not only shaped the department's future but also inspired multiple generations of volunteers to join the fire service. Born in Richfield Springs, he dedicated 36 years to Remington Arms before retiring in 2007, all while balancing his passion for firefighting. Despite his demanding schedule, he prioritized family — his daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

* Anne Sebeck, a dedicated resident of Otsego County, wears many hats. As an active officer of the Butternut Valley Grange in Gilbertsville, Sebeck contributes her time to various committees, including organizing Christmas gifts for 50 children and serving meals to homebound older adults. She volunteers her time during election season, serves on her town's ethics board, is a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, has traveled to New Orleans to lead a mission trip to assist residents after Hurricane Katrina and serves as a lay pastoral caregiver for her church, providing care and support to community members in need. Additionally, she plays a crucial role in the annual Garden Club Flower Show at the county fair, working with local youth to prepare exhibits. As president of American Legion Auxiliary Unit 1339, she leads efforts such as organizing blood drives, supporting local Veterans Day activities, and championing the Flag for Heroes program.

* From her early years on the family dairy farm in Andes, Polly DellaCrosse learned the importance of volunteering. Inspired by her parents' example, she has been involved in 4-H Camp Shankitunk, the Delhi Fair on the Square, the O'Connor Hospital Board, Delaware Opportunities Board, Head Start, the Vestry of St. John's Episcopal Church and as a caregiver in her community for those who need an extra hand. DellaCrosse has held leadership roles on multiple boards, leveraging her organizational skills and compassionate nature to address community needs. Beyond her volunteer commitments, DellaCrosse is an avid quilter, having crafted more than 1,200 quilts, most of them donated to charitable causes. She also crafts Christmas stockings, donating hundreds annually to Delaware Opportunities, a community action agency.

* Janice Frazee's commitment to her community in Stamford spans decades, touching the lives of countless individuals through her selfless acts of kindness and support. Whether calling bingo at the local senior living facility or assisting neighbors in times of need, her compassionate spirit shines through her volunteer work. She reaches out to residents in her community when they are sick, require assistance with shopping or need to go to their medical appointments. Living in Delaware County for more than 70 years, Frazee has dedicated her life to serving others, from her career as a teaching assistant to her involvement in community organizations and events.

* Chuck Miller's dedication to volunteerism reflects his deep compassion and commitment to serving others in Chenango County. From delivering meals to supporting medical transportation services, Miller's impact on his community is invaluable. Originally from Latham, Miller's career in sales and management prepared him for a life of service in retirement. His passion for helping others shines through his volunteer work, making a meaningful difference in the lives of many. In his spare time, Miller has restored an old hay wagon on his property to give hayrides to friends, family, neighbors, and even older adults from the senior center during the fall. He continues to positively impact his community through his kindness and generosity. "You can't understand how big of a help volunteering is, until you jump in and do it," Miller said.

* Kathy Miller, a proud native of Oxford, she brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her volunteer work with the Chenango County Area Agency on Aging. Graduating from Oxford Academy and later obtaining her bachelor's degree in psychology from SUNY Oneonta, Miller embarked on a fulfilling career as a social worker, serving in long-term care facilities across several counties in New York. Her passion for serving older adults led her back to Chenango County, where she served as a case manager and counselor for the Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program, which provides free and objective counseling to older adults on Medicare and other health insurance questions. Now retired, Miller continues her commitment to the community by volunteering during the agency's busy HIICAP season. Beyond her volunteer work, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her sons and grandchildren, as well as indulging in her love for travel.