Ontario, OH – The Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. is proud to announce that Dave and Kathy Daniels have been named the 2025 Outstanding Senior Citizens for Knox County. The Daniels, along with eight other honorees from across the district, were celebrated on Friday, August 15, at a special ceremony hosted at Hawkins Corner.
Dave and Kathy Daniels are more than volunteers – they are community leaders, mentors, and advocates. With a shared passion for civic involvement, education, and economic development, they have dedicated their lives to making Knox County a place where people of all ages can thrive.
Kathy Daniels is a powerhouse of thoughtful leadership and vision. She has served as Board President of the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging and held key roles with other service organizations, including Chairperson of Rehab Richland County’s Board of Directors, Secretary of Richland County Development Group, Vice Chair of Knox County Foundation, and member of the Ackerman Nature Preserve Committee. Her commitment to economic development and education is evident through her support of local charities and foundations. Kathy has been the recipient of the prestigious Athena Award; was inducted into the Area Agency on Aging Hall of Fame and has received numerous professional accolades. Through every role, she has uplifted others and brought integrity and strength to each initiative.
Dave Daniels has been equally committed to the betterment of his community. As Board Chairman of The Ohio State University at Mansfield and a Middlebury Township Trustee, Dave has worked tirelessly to strengthen the fabric of public service. His leadership on the Mid-Ohio Transit Authority Board and the Area Agency on Aging Foundation Board further reflect his dedication to accessible resources and mobility for all. Dave has also poured his time and heart into youth programs, including the Knox County 4-H Club, Youth Sports Coaching, the Wayne Grange Executive committee, and OSU Alumni Club of Knox County.
Together, Dave and Kathy Daniels exemplify the spirit of service, advocacy, and leadership. They have shaped their community through decades of tireless work.
Knox County Commissioner William Pursel presented a proclamation to Mr. and Mrs. Daniels, expressing gratitude for their outstanding service. A second proclamation was presented on behalf of Senator Andrew Brenner.
Each year, the Area Agency on Aging honors senior citizens who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their communities and present a positive image of aging. One honoree is selected from each of the nine counties in the Agency’s service area: Ashland, Crawford, Huron, Knox, Marion, Morrow, Richland, Seneca, and Wyandot.
Nominees must be recommended by an individual or organization involved with seniors. Final selections are based on the impact of their contributions and accomplishments made after the age of 60.
The Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc., located at 2131 Park Avenue West in Ontario, provides leadership, collaboration, coordination, and services to older adults, people with disabilities, caregivers, and resource networks that support independence, dignity, and choice.
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