Senator Flanagan Honors Commack Resident As His 2007 Woman Of Distinction

John J. Flanagan

June 5, 2007

Senator John Flanagan (2nd Senate District) welcomed the Director of Development for Federation of Organizations for the New York State Mentally Disabled Ruth Del Col to Albany for a ceremony honoring her as his 2007 Woman of Distinction. The Commack resident was recognized at a statewide reception held in the state capital.

"It is my privilege to honor Ruth as one of the women who set the standard for our state. Honoring her will set a great example for the young girls who will follow in her footsteps and that, through her example, will see that they can make a tremendous impact on those around them," stated Senator Flanagan.

Since accepting her position in 1996, Mrs. Del Col has been extremely active in the development and growth of the Federation’s programs and is responsible for the coordination of annual special events and expanding contacts with business and government leaders, as well as major donors and funding sources.

In her time at the organization, she has focused her efforts on the creation and expansion of programs for seniors. This effort has lead to a tripling of the participation in the Federation’s Foster Grandparent Program, which provides opportunities for low-income seniors to earn extra (tax-free) income while helping children with special educational and/or emotional needs to achieve their highest potential.

She is also responsible for the increase in the Federation’s Senior Companion Program, a senior-to-senior volunteer program that provides healthy seniors with the opportunity to help frail older adults by providing companionship, support and assistance. In addition to her fundraising activities, Ruth is an extremely active participant in seminars and conferences, and frequently speaks about the need for additional and improved senior services.

Federation of Organizations is a multi-service, community-based social welfare agency operating programs that utilize peer support within a self-help model. Incorporated in 1972 by family advocates, Federation develops programs to meet the needs of special populations such as: children at risk, low-income seniors, people recovering from mental illness and the homeless.

For over 30 years Federation, a not-for-profit corporation, has been working to improve services to people with disabilities and their families through education, information and referral services, legislative action and program development.

The Senate's Women of Distinction program was created in 1998 to honor New York women who exemplify personal excellence, or whose professional achievements or acts of courage, selflessness, integrity or perseverance serve as an example to all New York residents.