AUBURN – United Ambulance Service asked third grade students from Auburn area schools to participate in a coloring contest during April. The contest was developed in efforts to celebrate National EMS Week May 15 through 21.

Students were asked to draw a portrait based on “What they think of” when they hear the following words: EMS (emergency medical services), EMT (emergency medical technician), paramedic, United Ambulance and hospital.

The portraits were later displayed at Central Maine Medical Center and St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center. The displays served as an artistic EMS-related presentation for patients, visitors and hospital staff during EMS Week.

Participating schools included East Auburn Community School, Fairview School, Sherwood Heights School, Walton School and Washburn School.

Awards were given for the top five portraits: Olivia Tremblay, first, Fairview School; Alex Brushwein, second, East Auburn Community School; Austin Boucher, third, Sherwood Heights School; Janelle Tardiff, fourth, Fairview School; and Precious Pomerleau, fifth, Fairview School.

In addition, five participation awards were given to a student from each of the participating schools: Taylor Landry, Walton School; Rebecca Parker, Washburn School; Calvin Bureau, East Auburn Community School; Julia Langevin, Sherwood Heights School; and Marley Byrne, Fairview School.

Students who received the awards will each be given gift cards and a United T-shirt with their created portrait on the back.

Anyone who would like to learn more about United or the coloring contest can visit www.unitedambulance.com.