Albany County honors those who volunteer |

The 2012 Albany County Executive’s Volunteer Awards honored nine Albany County residents for their volunteerism.

“Some of you have lent an ear to those who needed guidance, helped our struggling children in the classroom, worked at blood drives and in thrift shops,” said Albany County Executive Daniel McCoy in a statement.  “You’ve been the voice of senior citizens and an advocate, prepared lunches for those who were hungry and stepped in when and where needed during Hurricane Irene.  I’m amazed and grateful.”

McCoy also stated that people cannot put a price on the time, energy, skill and dedication that volunteers give to their communities.

Below are this year’s honorees:

·       Ronald Vincent, Marlene Barton, Hugh Langley and Kenneth Walker – provide religious consultation to inmates of the Albany County Correctional Facility. They have dedicated themselves to helping distraught, troubled inmates and have given them hope and guidance.

·       Norman Fancher – has dedicated hundreds of hours to the STARS (Seniors Teaching And Reaching Out to Students) program.  He teaches summer reading to struggling students and is helps with the homework club and does numerous environmental activities for children at A.W. Becker and P.B. Coeymans Elementary Schools.

·       Patricia McNamara - has been volunteering with the Albany Medical Center Surgical Waiting Area Amenities Station since 2004 and is dedicated to volunteering at Albany Medical Center at the Thrift Shop and at blood drives.

·       Martha Oden – volunteers for the Town of New Scotland.  She spends countless hours coordinating rides for the transportation program.  Last year she contacted over 1300 seniors and this year she has reached out to over 300.

·       Mara Papa – Mary has been a steadfast and tireless volunteer to the Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany for over 25 years. She has consistently volunteered every Monday and Thursdays serving lunch to the community.

·       Barbara Zittel, RPN – has been an Albany County Medical Reserve Corps volunteer since 2007.  Her skill and dedication is apparent in her capacity as the Point of Dispensing Manager where she has increased efficiency during emergencies.