LEWISTON — Liberty Mutual of Lewiston was recently awarded the Exemplary Corporate Volunteer Service Award by Gov. John E. Baldacci and the Maine Commission for Community Service.

The awards program recognizes individuals and community organizations whose donations of time and leadership have made a significant difference in the quality of life for Maine residents. The award honors the state’s most dedicated volunteers and the service they provide to Maine citizens.

The 300 employees of the Liberty Mutual office have been volunteering in the greater Lewiston-Auburn area for more than 35 years, including many United Way funded agencies. The award nomination was submitted by Common Ties Mental Health Services of Lewiston, an organization serving the health and human service needs of persons who have a serious mental health illness.

Under the leadership of Debbie Audet and Diane Roy, the Liberty Mutual Volunteer Committee meets during lunch to plan an annual activity and fundraising calendar.

The 2009 activity of the committee benefited the following agencies: Common Ties Mental Health Wellness Fund, St. Mary’s Food Pantry Thanksgiving Food Baskets, Salvation Army Holiday Assistance, Rural Community Action Ministry Fuel and Holiday Assistance, Sexual Assault Crisis Center Victim Assault Fund, New Beginnings Shelter for Teens Personal Items, Abused Woman’s Advocacy Project household supplies, Advocates for Children Holiday Family Fair, Trinity Jubilee Center Canned Goods and Diapers, Catholic Charities S.E.A.R.C.H Seniors Grocery Cards, Head Start Sneakers and Boots, American Red Cross Health and Safety Manuals, St. Martins de Porre’s Shelter equipment, YMCA Pack and Play kits, Sandcastle Preschool “Handwriting Without Tears,” Catholic Charity St. Francis Recovery Center Living Sober Books, Child Health Center Equipment, Big Brothers After School Supplies.

The 2009 beneficiaries demonstrate how the Liberty employees actively reach out beyond their campus on outer Lisbon Street, and contribute to the strength and vitality of families and individuals of all ages and needs.