Celebrating Older New Yorkers Day with close to 100 others on May 14 were, from the left, NYS Office for the Aging Acting Director Greg Olsen, awardee Elizabeth Wunner, her granddaughter Tasha, awardee Maureen Hopper, Sullivan County Office for the Aging Coordinator of Services Kelly Soller, Director Lise-Anne Deoul and Nutrition Coordinator Jane Bozan.
Albany, NY – Sullivan County’s Maureen Hopper and Elizabeth Wunner travelled May 14 to Albany to each receive the NYS Office for the Aging’s “Older New Yorker” award.
“Maureen and Elizabeth exemplify the kind of 55+ volunteers we have in our County,” said Sullivan County Office for the Aging Director Lise-Anne Deoul, who accompanied the duo to the ceremony. “They give without thought of getting anything in return, but I’m so happy that the State was able to recognize them in this wonderful way!”
A former County employee, Hopper volunteers as a counselor with the Office for the Aging’s Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP), along with serving on the Retired Senior Volunteer Program’s (RSVP’s) Advisory Council. The Liberty resident emphasizes the importance of “paying it forward,” finding fulfillment in helping others.
Wunner has volunteered with RSVP for close to 20 years, particularly as a deliverer of meals to the homebound. “I bring my grandchildren with me so they can see the importance of helping those in the community, and how something so simple as a hot meal can brighten up someone’s whole day,” the Woodridge resident relates.
“These dedicated individuals are powering connections in so many profound ways, and New York State expresses profound gratitude for this spirit of altruism, which is a legacy of lasting benefit and inspiration to all New Yorkers,” stated Governor Kathy Hochul, who proclaimed May as Older Americans Month in New York State.