Write a commentUnited Way of Greater Oswego County will be honoring several supporters at their upcoming Annual meeting on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
The luncheon, sponsored by the Richard S. Shineman Foundation, will be held at Kristen’s Kitchen, located at Battle Island State Park, in Fulton at 12pm.
The Annual Meeting serves as an opportunity to recap the previous year for the organization, elect board officers, renew board terms and thank our supporters. “Each year, we have the honor and privilege to spotlight various individuals and businesses that believe in our mission and have been steadfast supporters of our nonprofit, committed to making a positive impact across our county”, said Executive Director Patrick Dewine.
This event will start with a delicious buffet, followed by a short organizational meeting, and immediately after will be presentations of four awards before closing remarks.
This year a special recognition will be presented by United Way of Oswego County to honor Diane Cooper-Currier with the Lifetime Legacy Award. Cooper-Currier recently retired after over forty years with Oswego County Opportunities, ending her OCO career serving as the executive director. The Lifetime Legacy Award recognizes an individual who has made a profound, positive and long-lasting impact on our community. This honoree has demonstrated sustained leadership, made an enduring difference, and has been committed to advancing United Way’s mission across our county. “We couldn’t think of a better person to recognize with this award, as Diane has faithfully served our community for decades, leading with passion, compassion, and a daily desire to make a difference.”, said Dewine.
The Community Action Award is being presented to IBEW Local 43. This award recognizes local individuals or organizations that have exhibited excellence in supporting the mission of improving lives in Oswego County. IBEW Local 43 has been a longtime supporter of many organizations in communities they serve, including each United Way in our region. “We have always applauded IBEW Local 43 for their strong partnership and we want to take this opportunity to shine a spotlight on them for their many years of kindness and generosity”, said Dewine.
United Way of Oswego County’s Community Partner Of The Year Award will be honoring the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) located here in Oswego County. This award recognizes a United Way funded partner agency whose staff, volunteers and program demonstrate a positive impact in our community and improve lives across our county. “We are thrilled to highlight the valuable services RSVP provides to so many sites and agency programs through each volunteer’s most precious commodities…their time and experience”, said Dewine. RSVP volunteers are hiding in plain sight, sharing their free services at food panties, delivering meals to seniors, and offering no-cost tax preparations, to name a few. Annually, this group of 279 dedicated volunteers log over 52,000 hours, serving and supporting 52 partnering stations across Oswego County.
This year’s Community Champion Award is being presented to Raby’s Ace Home Center. This award recognizes a business or individual who continuously goes above and beyond to give back to the community. “United Way of Oswego County has been extremely fortunate to receive the support of owner Rob Raby and his family over the years with their kind spirit and generosity.” said Dewine. “Believing in our work and mission, Rob is always eager to make a positive impact, and we are beyond grateful for his partnership”, added Dewine.
The event is open to the public. Tickets to attend the luncheon can be purchased online by emailing office@oswegounitedway.org or call (315) 593-1900 x 3 weekdays between 9am-4pm.
