As Mainers gather around loaded tables and greet family members who come from afar, we also take a moment to give thanks to those among us who give their time and their energy to the larger community, sharing their humanity and enriching the world around us. Here are 10 people who have worked diligently, often without recognition, to comfort, protect, nurture and inspire others who need a helping hand.

Central Maine Medical Center operating room nurse and food pantry volunteer, Portland

Promoter and lifeblood of Saco River Theatre, Bar Mills

Brings insight and enjoyment to people as Maine poet laureate, Mercer

Maine Association of Area Agencies on Aging executive director, Harpswell

American Cancer Society Road to Recovery volunteer driver, Gardiner