History

Otsego County Commission on Aging (OCCOA) began as a volunteer organization in the 1970s, answering a need to help older adults. Operating on a small budget and meeting for potluck meals in an old stone recreation building, a modest start was accomplished.

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners established the Otsego County Commission on Aging in July 1979. Federal and state grants were applied for, and the first part-time employees were hired. In 1989, a local millage was passed to finance further services to older adults in Otsego County.

In 1993, new management was hired to apply progressive, private management techniques and policies to this public agency, and remains in place today. Constantly striving for excellence, OCCOA provides the highest quality customer service by "helping and caring" for older adults in Otsego County.

Today, OCCOA is one of the most active and dynamic agencies of its kind in our area. We are very proud of the contributions the agency is making to our community and of the opportunities we provide for employment.