The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) recently honored over 90 older adults for their volunteerism as part of NYSOFA’s annual Older New Yorkers’ Day celebration presented during a November 3 livestream. Awardees were nominated by New York’s 59 county Offices for the Aging and their partners who identified older adults making substantial contributions in their communities through volunteering and civic engagement. Local award recipients were Richard Cotten of Ogden, Dee Wake of Hilton, and Barbara Filipiak of Medina.
Richard Cotten
Richard Cotten’s journey at the Ogden Senior Center began as a volunteer, but his contributions have grown far beyond that initial role.
As a volunteer, Cotten assists in setting up lunch trays, ensuring that those with mobility challenges receive their meals, and he takes responsibility for maintaining well-stocked bathrooms. He brings joy to members of the center by providing sweet treats twice a week. He warmly welcomes new older adults to the center, fostering an inclusive and inviting atmosphere with a keen ability to discern people’s needs.
Born in New York, Cotten has spent a total of 62 years in the state. He resided in Florida for 18 years but returned home to be closer to family. Cotten stresses the importance of active listening and fostering respect, care, and kindness in one’s interactions with others.
Dee Wake
Dee Wake, an enthusiastic presence at her senior center, has a profound love for community engagement and staying active. Her commitment to keeping others informed is evident through her meticulously maintained binder containing newsletters and monthly menus, serving as a valuable resource for both newcomers and all visitors to the center.
Currently, Wake holds pivotal roles as a member of the senior center’s Site Council and the Project Council for the Monroe County Office for the Aging. Additionally, her active involvement extends to orchestrating weekly Tuesday Bingo sessions.
Wake’s roots in Hilton, where she was born and raised, are complemented by her passion for genealogy and ancestry research. She takes pride in the care of her family’s gravesites at the local cemetery.
In her leisure time, Wake finds joy in horses and indulging in crafting pursuits, such as ceramics and quilting. She relishes day trips exploring new destinations.
If one were to ask Wake for advice, she would likely emphasize the importance of seeking out opportunities for staying active and socially engaged, as demonstrated by her vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle.
Barbara Filipiak
Barbara Filipiak is a dedicated volunteer who devotes countless hours to various organizations. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, she volunteered for the Orleans Genesee County Public Health Department, providing vital assistance with essential supplies. She worked at every vaccination clinic, and her exceptional efficiency and organizational skills made her the first to step up when help was needed.
Her volunteer work also includes the Medina Area Association of Churches (MAC Thrift Store and Emergency Food Pantry). She also takes on numerous volunteer responsibilities within Medina Holy Trinity Parish and holds several officer roles within the Catholic Daughters organization. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Medina Historical Society and is an active member of the Cobblestone Society, Sandstone Society, and the Friends of the Lee Whedon Memorial Library. At the local Alpha Theta Chapter of the Woman’s Educator Society, she has held positions such as president, treasurer, and rules committee member over the years, making a significant impact both locally and at the state level.
Born in Eden, New York, she is the oldest of six siblings. She attended Immaculate Academy in Hamburg, New York, followed by D’Youville College in Buffalo, and she completed her education at SUNY Brockport. She embarked on her teaching career in Medina, New York, in September 1972, dedicating herself to educating third and fourth graders for 33 years before retiring in June 2005. She currently resides in Medina
Learn more about Older New Yorkers Day, read about all of this year’s awardees, or watch the video presentation at https://aging.ny.gov/2023-older-new-yorkers-day.
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