More than 110 donors, volunteers and community partners joined United Way of Mid-Maine’s annual meeting June 1 to celebrate and honor community members who are making a difference in the lives of the people of mid-Maine.

The event was held at Thomas College’s Spann Student Center in Waterville and was sponsored by Northeast Laboratories Services, Kennebec Savings Bank, and Kennebec Wealth Management.

The following United Way of Mid-Maine’s Community Impact Awards were presented:

Bill Primmerman, project director of Somerset Public Health, received the Spirit of Mid-Maine Award, recognizing a special person or group who has gone above and beyond for the community and has helped to advance the common good in mid-Maine. Primmerman has been instrumental in the development of access to health and human services throughout Somerset County, connecting communities with needs, to agencies with resources to address those needs. He makes sure agencies and coalitions are aware of various funding opportunities, and works diligently to bring the right community partners to the table for the most impactful conversations and decisions.

Rep. Thomas Longstaff, D-Waterville, state legislator representing District 109 in the Maine House of Representatives, was presented the Volunteer of the Year — the Chester A. Baker Award, given each year to an outstanding individual who has volunteered his/her time, talent, energy and enthusiasm in a multitude of ways that exceeds expectations. Longstaff is a longtime supporter and board member of United Way of Mid-Maine. He is an active advocate and supporter for the health and wellness and social justice for the residents of mid-Maine.

Ann Lindeman, assistant vice president and Winslow branch manager at Bangor Savings Bank, received the Women’s Leadership Award, given each year to a woman in the community who demonstrates a commitment to creating stronger community and to stepping forward boldly to be a part of the solution. Lindeman is a longtime supporter of and volunteer for United Way, and has served on the board and multiple committees over the years. She has been instrumental in the design and implementation of United Way of Mid-Maine’s Youth Homelessness Initiative. She has done hours of work, behind the scenes, making sure the right people are reached, and focusing on the most effective, impactful approaches to reaching vulnerable youth, with this program that is intended to help keep children successful in school, even in the face of homelessness and other dire challenges in their home life. Because of the needs expressed by local school districts, the program has been expanded to address children and youth from kindergarten through grade 12.

Alexandria Brann was presented the Young Leader’s Award, given each year to a promising young leader who demonstrates and promotes leadership and community involvement among Mid-Maine’s youth, and who exemplifies a passion to make a difference. Brann, who volunteered many hours this year for UWMM’s CA$H Initiative, is a Messalonskee High School sophomore, and an active member of Key Club, concert chorus and GSA club. She has done volunteer work at the James H. Bean School, the Central Maine and Capital Area CA$H sites, and at community events raising awareness for domestic abuse. Brann is a member of the MHS Robotics Team “Infinite Loop” and has helped with their fundraising to attend the National Championship competition. She participated in student focus groups and took dual enrollment courses through KVCC and Thomas College.

Copy the Story Link