2018 UNITED We Thrive Award Recipients Announced
Over 200 people gathered at the UNITED We Thrive Award Luncheon on Wednesday, April 25, 2018 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.
“This is such a great opportunity for us to recognize these individuals and organizations for their outstanding and instrumental role in making our community a place where everyone has the opportunity to reach their potential,” said Liz Cotter Schlax, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Portland.
Give awards were presented to two organizations that demonstrate excellence, creativity, and generosity during the 2017 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: Creative Office Pavilion
• Large Organization: MEMIC
• Meg Baxter Legacy Award: Shawn Gorman, Chairman at L.L.Bean
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 Organization: Maine Children’s Alliance
• Large Organization: Hannaford Supermarkets
• Individual Advocate Award: Xavier Botana, Superintendent of Portland Public Schools for his advocacy to advance a city-wide vision of education that puts equity at the center.
This year the Volunteer award was presented to TD Bank for its dedication to the community to address United Way of Greater Portland’s focus areas.
Last, but not least, United Way’s highest honor, the Spirit of Greater Portland Award, was presented to WEX Inc. Beyond demonstrating excellence in its United Way campaign, WEX 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.
2018 UWGP Spirit of Greater Portland: WEX Inc. from United Way of Greater Portland