PORTLAND – Arnold Leavitt of Auburn was recently honored at an awards ceremony appreciating outstanding volunteers at the sixth annual 6 Who Care Awards.

Leavitt was nominated by his grandsons, Brandon and Bradley Libby of Brewer. They noted “his inner strength often guides others to be strong” and said the deeds he performs are an inspiration to them and motivate them to excel in what they do.

Leavitt is an active member of many organizations, including the VFW, American Legion, Amvets, Purple Heart, Maine Veterans Coordinating Committee, Elks, Shrine, Masons and AARP. He is a member of the Legislative Advocacy Committee for AARP. He was chapter president for two years, stepped down and in May of 2005 was again appointed president.

Leavitt is a member of VFW Post 1603 in Auburn and is a past post commander, past district commander and past state commander. He was active in forming the Maine Veterans Coordinating Committee and served for several years as chairman. He serves as legislative officer. The organization includes 14 veterans service organizations.

Leavitt is on the Togus Management Advisory Committee and is one of two Maine representatives to the VA on the New England Network Management Advisory Committee in Bedford, Mass.

He served and chaired the state VFW on Americanism, Community Activities, Youth Safety, Drug, POW-MIA, Resolutions and Bylaws. He helped initiate a nonprofit organization for affordable housing for veterans throughout the state. The first project will be located in an existing building in Bangor and will make available 14 apartments for handicapped veterans.