Diane Russo is congratulated by board Chairman Sal Gambino.
NORTH SALEM – Diane Russo, executive director and CEO of CoveCare,
formerly Putnam Family and Community Services, was lauded Friday evening
at her agency’s Imagines benefit by being described as a woman who
has achieved greatness.
Some 200 people attended the gala at the Salem Golf Club in North Salem
to recognize the public servant who has announced her retirement effective
January 2019.
Putnam’s Commissioner of Social Services and Mental Health Mike
Piazza praised Russo for “wanting to serve everyone. Everything
you have accomplished during your 30-year career has helped make lives
better. You are a treasure.”
Sal Gambino, chairman of the CoveCare Board of Directors, said Russo’s
accomplishments in the behavioral health field were unparallel. “Your
life has been dedicated to service.”
Stacey Gibson of Garrison, chairwoman of the CoveCare Fundraising Committee,
presented Russo with the Sid Gibson Imagine Award named in memory of her
late husband.
“Diane’s compassionate heart has allowed her to assist so
many throughout her wonderful career. If each one of us offered the same
kindness to one person each day, imagine what a wonderful world this would
be.”
Russo thanked the non-for-profit and those in attendance for the recognition:
“I believe in people since all people have the ability to recover
through the power of positive choice. My clients have helped me reach
for the stars!”
After serving in several capacities in New York City and Westchester,
Russo was contacted by Putnam Family and Community Services and asked
to become the agency’s associate executive director.
“The decision to relocate to Putnam was one of the best of my life
since after serving in that capacity for 12 years in 2010, the board of
directors asked me to assume the role of executive director and chief
executive officer. I love this agency. PFCS and now CoveCare has been
my family.
October 5 marked my 20th anniversary. The people treated here are neighbors,
friends, family and co-workers. My staff’s goal is to assist our
community by making our county healthier,” she said.
Russo praised her staff for touching the lives of thousands of people.
“We may see one individual but in reality, we are touching their
families, friends and colleagues.”
Once Russo hangs up her CoveCare affiliation, she has no intention of
sitting back in a rocking chair and watching the world go by.
Russo has recently received her certification as Board Certified Coach
and will become a life coach in the field of non-profit executive coaching
for women.
