Oneonta’s Got Soul 2026

What an unforgettable evening!

On Friday, October 9, 2026, the Foothills Performing Arts & Civic Center came alive with music, laughter, celebration, and community spirit as Helios Care hosted Oneonta’s Got Soul, a special benefit concert supporting our mission of providing compassionate care to patients and families throughout our communities.

From the incredible live performances to the recognition of individuals who go above and beyond to make a difference, the evening was a beautiful reminder of what happens when a community comes together for a meaningful cause.

An Incredible Night of Music & Entertainment

The evening featured an outstanding lineup of talented musicians performing some of the greatest hits from Motown, Soul, R&B, and Funk!

Headlining the celebration was Nate Gross and the Soul Mine Band, who brought incredible energy and excitement to the stage.

We were also thrilled to welcome performances by:

• John Thompson
• Allie Torto
• Mark Pawkett
• Doug Decker
• Khalil Jave
• Randy Miritello
• Eric Haight

Along with additional talented performers who helped make the evening truly special!

Guests also enjoyed delicious food from Soda Jerks, refreshments from the Foothills cash bar, and a silent auction featuring more than 40 unique items, including gift baskets and generously donated treasures.

Every ticket purchased, auction bid placed, and contribution made helped support the compassionate services Helios Care provides to individuals and families facing serious illness, end-of-life care, and grief.

Celebrating Those Who Make a Difference

While the music brought everyone together, one of the most meaningful moments of the evening was recognizing individuals whose kindness, dedication, and compassion leave a lasting impact on the lives of others.

This year was especially exciting as Helios Care presented our 4th Annual Dr. Yoshiro Matsuo Compassionate Care Award, along with the introduction of our first-ever DAISY Award and Tulip Award.

4th Annual Dr. Yoshiro Matsuo Compassionate Care Award

2026 Award Recipient: Heidi Armao

The Dr. Yoshiro Matsuo Compassionate Care Award honors individuals who demonstrate extraordinary kindness, compassion, and dedication to caring for others, reflecting the values and legacy of Dr. Matsuo.

We are incredibly proud to recognize Heidi Armao as this year's recipient!

We also extend our heartfelt congratulations to our outstanding 2026 nominees:

• Connie Jastremski
• Dr. Chris Mulik
• Daisy Shortsleeve-McMullen
• Kathy Varadi
• Carrie Sutton
• Amie Monahan
• Carole and Michael LaChance
• Linda Evanczyk
• Michael Lent Jr.

Each nominee represents the very best of what compassionate care means. Their contributions to our communities are immeasurable, and we are honored to recognize the difference they continue to make in the lives of others.

Inaugural Tulip Award

2026 Award Recipient: Gabriela Andrades

This year marked an exciting milestone for Helios Care with the presentation of our very first Tulip Award!

The Tulip Award recognizes the exceptional contributions of support staff whose dedication, compassion, and commitment play an essential role in the care and comfort of patients and families.

Congratulations to Gabriela Andrades, our inaugural Tulip Award recipient!

We also proudly recognize our deserving nominees, Soraya Mostert and Kim Stabile, for the kindness, hard work, and dedication they bring to Helios Care each day.

Inaugural DAISY Award

2026 Award Recipient: Paula Johnson

Another special milestone was the presentation of Helios Care's first-ever DAISY Award, recognizing the extraordinary compassion, clinical excellence, and dedication demonstrated by nurses.

We are thrilled to congratulate Paula Johnson as our inaugural DAISY Award recipient!

We also extend our sincere congratulations to nominee Amber Dudley, whose compassion, leadership, and commitment to exceptional patient care continue to make a meaningful difference.

These awards are about so much more than recognition. They are an opportunity to celebrate the people who make difficult days a little easier, provide comfort when it is needed most, and remind families that they are never alone.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Community

An event like Oneonta’s Got Soul would not be possible without the generosity, enthusiasm, and support of so many incredible people.

To our sponsors, donors, volunteers, performers, community partners, staff, and everyone who attended—THANK YOU!

Your generosity helps Helios Care continue providing hospice care, CHOICES palliative care, caregiver support, bereavement services, and other meaningful programs to individuals and families throughout Otsego, Delaware, and Schoharie counties.

We are especially grateful to the talented musicians who shared their time and gifts, the businesses and individuals who supported our silent auction, and everyone who worked behind the scenes to bring this celebration to life.

More Than a Concert—A Celebration of Compassion

Oneonta’s Got Soul was more than an evening of great music. It was a celebration of the people who make our communities stronger, the compassion that connects us, and the difference we can make when we come together.

To our award recipients and nominees, congratulations! To our supporters, thank you for believing in our mission. And to our entire community, thank you for helping us make every moment matter.

We look forward to continuing this tradition of music, recognition, and community connection for years to come!