OLEAN — The Olean Rotary Club will recognize three organizations whose longstanding commitment to serving residents has strengthened the local community during its 8th Annual Service Above Self Awards Dinner on Monday, May 11, 2026.
The event will be held at Woodside Tavern on the Range, 3319 W. River Road, from 5 to 7 p.m. The evening will feature a buffet dinner followed by the awards presentation, along with a cash bar.
This year’s honorees are Harvest Field Ministries, the Olean Food Pantry, and The Warming House, organizations that collectively represent decades of service addressing food insecurity and other critical needs throughout the Olean area.
Founded in 1974, The Warming House is one of the nation’s oldest student-run soup kitchens. Originally established as a drop-in center offering companionship and support to isolated adults, the organization expanded in the early 1980s to provide daily meals. Over the years, it has grown into a vital resource for individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, and food insecurity.
The Warming House provides not only nourishment but also fellowship and dignity to those it serves. Volunteers, students, and community members work together to create a welcoming environment where individuals can gather, share meals, and find connection.
Demand for services has increased significantly in recent years. In 2023, The Warming House served more than 23,000 meals, representing a 300 percent increase compared to five years earlier, highlighting both rising community needs and the organization’s expanding impact.
Tickets for the Service Above Self Awards Dinner are $45 per person or $85 per couple. Tickets may be purchased at the door, by mail to P.O. Box 121, Olean, NY, or reserved online through the Rotary Club’s website. Reservations are requested by May 1.
Past recipients of the Service Above Self Award include Meme Yanetsko; the Olean Area Service Club organizations 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 composed of local professionals dedicated to improving quality of life both locally and internationally through service initiatives and community partnerships.
