New York County Celebrates Volunteers With Baseball & Gifts

A New York county is turning America's favorite pastime into a celebration of the volunteers who keep their community strong.

The Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services is offering free tickets to a July 25 baseball game for residents age 60 and older who volunteer their time supporting seniors. The evening features a Christmas in July theme and fireworks, but more importantly, it kicks off something special.

The game launches the 2026 Santa for Seniors Campaign, a program that delivers holiday visits, gifts, household essentials, and meals to older adults who might otherwise spend the holidays alone. Through partnerships with local churches and senior clubs, volunteers ensure that every senior in the county experiences connection during the holiday season.

This tradition of recognition runs deep in Chautauqua County. In 2023, the county celebrated Russ Diethrick, affectionately known as "Mr. Baseball," when he received the Governor's Exemplary Service Award as New York State's Volunteer of the Year. The ceremony took place at the ballpark that bears his name, a fitting tribute to his extraordinary contributions.

Every July, the county dedicates the entire month to recognizing volunteers who deliver meals, provide companionship, and help older adults remain healthy and independent in their communities. These volunteers form the backbone of services that keep seniors connected and thriving.

Sunny's Take

What makes this story shine isn't just the baseball tickets or holiday gifts. It's the simple recognition that older adults aren't just recipients of care but active volunteers making their own communities better. By celebrating volunteers at the ballpark and launching a campaign to support isolated seniors, Chautauqua County creates a beautiful cycle where people who give also receive.

The program offers multiple ways for community members to help, from donating to the Reverend J. Paul Womack Christmas Basket Fund to purchasing items from an Amazon wish list or donating postage stamps to encourage letter writing among seniors. Churches and senior clubs throughout the county contribute handmade gifts and collect essential items.

Free tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis at any county Office for Aging Services location, and an information table at the game will share details about volunteering and supporting the Santa for Seniors Campaign.

Sometimes the brightest communities are built one volunteer, one game, and one act of kindness at a time.