AUGUSTA — The Kennebec Valley Organization hosted its third annual Micah Heroes Award Dinner on April 21 at Le Club Calumet. Local volunteers and leaders who work to improve their communities and support vulnerable populations were honored.

The local organization is comprised of area churches, labor groups, and community leaders devoted to social and economic justice in the area. The Kennebec Valley Organization was formed in 2005, and has won support for wage increases for low-wage workers, transportation for senior citizens, mental health support, and addressing elder isolation and housing.

The award winners for 2016:

• Nancy Godfrey, of the First Congregational Church in Waterville, was recognized for her work as a music educator and scout leader, and for her work on behalf of the Oakland Library, Maine Children’s Home for Little Wanderers, and Meals on Wheels.

• Monique McAuliffe, of the Unitarian Universalist Community church of Augusta, was recognized for her work as a youth advisor, including Peace Jam, Coming of Age.

• Christine Greenleaf, of the Maine AFL-CIO, was recognized for her work aiding laid off workers through the state’s Rapid Response and Peer Support Programs, where she has helped more than 20,000 workers with unemployment compensation, health insurance, job training, and job placement.

• Joe and Tanya Fossett and family, was recognized for their leadership with the Mid Maine Homeless Shelter, both as managers and volunteers, and teaching their family to “pay it forward.”

• Thomas and Mariette Castonguay, of St. Rose of Lima Church In Jay, was recognized for their work with the Peace and Justice Committee, Daughters of Isabella, religious education, Little League, and the local school board.

• Joyce Peters, of Fairfield, was recognized for her work with the area food pantry, and for her work with the residents of Mt. St. Josephs Residence and Rehabilitation.

• Sammee (Beverly) Quog, of Augusta, was recognized for her support for Asian Cultural Programs, the Holocaust Human Rights Center, SEARCH, area hospice, AARP and Viles Arboretum.

• Fern LaRochelle, of Augusta, was recognized for his work on the Parish Council of St. Michaels’ Catholic Church, Social Justice and Peace ministries, the Augusta Soup Kitchen, and the Thanksgiving Project.

The event also honored, in memoriam, Eunice Spooner of Sidney, a member of the KVO Board of Directors, a leader at the First Congregational Church in Waterville, local school board member, and inspirational leader who gave her heart and soul for her community and for students around the world.

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