The Olean Rotary Club hosted its 8th Annual Service Above Self Awards Dinner on Monday, May 11, recognizing three organizations whose long-standing service has made a meaningful impact on the greater Olean community.The event took place at Woodside Tavern on the Range, located at 3319 W. River Road, from 5 to 7 p.m.
This year’s honorees are Harvest Field Ministries, the Olean Food Pantry, and The Warming House. Collectively, these organizations represent decades of dedicated service addressing food insecurity and other critical needs throughout the region.
Among the honorees, the Olean Food Pantry has served as a cornerstone of compassion and community care for local individuals and families facing food insecurity. For many residents, the pantry represents more than a place to receive groceries — it is a dependable source of support during difficult times. Through the tireless dedication of volunteers, partnerships with local agencies, and generous community donations, the pantry distributes nutritious food to hundreds of households each year.
The organization works to ensure that no neighbor goes hungry, offering consistent access to healthy food options while reducing the stress and uncertainty that often accompany financial hardship. Beyond meeting immediate needs, the Olean Food Pantry helps foster dignity, hope, and connection by welcoming every individual with respect and understanding. Its ongoing efforts strengthen families, support seniors and children, and reinforce the spirit of neighbors helping neighbors that defines the greater Olean community.
The Service Above Self Awards Dinner has become an annual tradition recognizing individuals and organizations whose contributions exemplify Rotary’s guiding principle of community service. Past recipients include Meme Yanetsko; the Olean Area Service Club, including the Exchange Club, Lions Club, and Zonta; the Allegany American Legion Ritual Team; the Crandall family; Dan Evans; Linda O’Brien and Dan Spring; the Enchanted Mountain Garden Club of Allegany and the Olean Gardens and Beautification Committee; and the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany.
The Olean Rotary Club is a service organization made up of local professionals dedicated to improving quality of life both locally and internationally through service, leadership, and community engagement.
PHOTOS: 1) Harvest Fields 2) Olean Food Pantry 3) Warming House
