Amherst resident receives Distinguished Service Award

Having lived with diabetes for the past 40 years, James A. Horbowicz knows firsthand the importance of the American Diabetes Association's efforts.

He has been an active member of the association and was recently recognized for his dedication.

The Amherst resident was awarded the association's Wendell Mayes Jr. Medal for Outstanding Service in the Cause of Diabetes at the American Diabetes Association's Community Volunteer Leadership Conference held on Nov. 17 in St. Louis.

Named for a past chair of the board and longtime volunteer, the Wendell Mayes Jr. Medal honors those who have given extraordinary service in the cause of diabetes.

"Jim's contributions to the diabetes community and dedication to diabetes awareness directly support ADA's mission to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people living with diabetes," said Dr. John Buse, president of medicine and science for the association.

Horbowicz has been involved with the ADA for more than 20 years, providing his business expertise to help the organization's cause. He is a former vice president of M&T Bank in Buffalo.

He has served as treasurer and chairman of the ADA's Buffalo Council.

Horbowicz is the founder of Buffalo Tour de Cure. He is also credited with the merger of the New York Upstate and New York Downstate affiliates and served as first chair of the newly formed NYS affiliate.

In 1993 he was named to the ADA's board of directors, serving until 1995. He also held a term from 2001 to 2004. He was in charge of the task force that resulted in the Community and Volunteer Development Committee.

Currently he serves as chair of Community Health Charities of America's National Board of Directors.

The ADA said he was chosen for his years of volunteering, and "untiring dedication to supporting ADA's efforts and helping others affected by diabetes."