2017 UNITED We Thrive Award Recipients Announced
Over 200 people gathered at the inaugural UNITED We Thrive Award Luncheon on Friday, April 28, 2017 to celebrate and recognize the triumphs of organizations and individuals committed to help our community thrive through their work in United Way’s focus areas of education, financial stability, and health.
“Making this community stronger requires individuals and companies committed to giving back, leading by example, and getting hands-on in addressing the community’s challenges,” noted Liz Cotter Schlax, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Portland. “We are honored to recognize these individuals and organizations for their part in making our community to a place where everyone has the opportunity to reach their potential.”
A panel of 16 volunteers carefully reviewed 33 submissions and selected 11 award recipients.
Give awards were presented to three organizations that demonstrate excellence, creativity, and generosity during the 2016 United Way of Greater Portland campaign. Additionally, the Meg Baxter Legacy Award, in honor of Meg Baxter, President of United Way of Greater Portland from 1990-2010, was presented to an individual who has played a role in the long-term success and viability of United Way of Greater Portland.
- Small Organization: Horizon Solutions
- Medium Organization: Baker Newman Noyes
- Large Organization: L.L.Bean
- Meg Baxter Legacy Award: Chris Emmons, President & CEO of Gorham Savings Bank
Advocate awards were presented to two organizations and an individual who speak out on behalf of or educate others on issues in one or more of United Way’s focus areas of education, financial stability, and health.
- Small/Medium Organization: Freeport Community Services
- Large Organization: Dead River Company
- Individual Advocate Award: Sara Ewing-Merrill for her advocacy on the issues of family homelessness.
Volunteer awards were presented to two organizations and an individual who dedicate time in the community to address United Way of Greater Portland’s focus areas.
- Small/Medium Organization: Gorham Savings Bank
- Large Organization: Dead River Company
- Bert Andrews Award: David Smith for his volunteer spirit of digging in to complex challenges and using his skills for the community’s benefit.
United Way’s highest honor, the Spirit of Greater Portland Award, was presented to Unum. Beyond demonstrating excellence in its United Way campaign, Unum received high marks for their organizational volunteer culture, including collaborative work with United Way and other nonprofits in the community; the benefit their employees receive from community involvement; and the role their leadership plays in promoting a culture of philanthropy and community support.
2017 UWGP Spirit of Greater Portland: Unum from United Way of Greater Portland.