LEWISTON — Mayor Laurent F. Gilbert Sr. surprised volunteer members of the John F. Murphy Homes Navigators Day Program on July 29 with the July Mayoral VIBE Award (Volunteers Inspire By Example) while they were volunteering at United Ambulance.

Each Thursday, the Navigators share their abilities with the community, to include service at United Ambulance, the YWCA and SeniorsPlus. Navigators Administrator Michelle Roy said, “They realize people in the community do a lot to support them. It is important to them that they give back and show people that having ‘different abilities’ does not mean they are not able to contribute.”

Upon Gilbert’s arrival, the Navigators were in action, washing windows and vacuuming. United Ambulance Executive Director Paul Gosselin spoke highly of the group as he assisted in gathering them together.

The group was enthusiastic and appreciative, and when each volunteer was recognized, cheers and clapping ensued. Each volunteer was presented with a certificate from Gilbert, a donated restaurant gift certificate and a VIBE lapel pin.

Gilbert said to the group, “People like you make a tremendous difference, and you are commended for your willingness to use your abilities to positively contribute to your community.”

Volunteers celebrated were: Ryan Bouchard, Megan Booker, Joshua Brosious, Rachel Coffin, Nathan Davis, Grace Decker-Fetherolf, Megan Dyer, Kala Emery, Amanda Freeman, Della Lippincott, Todd Morin, Brandon Mullen, Suad Odowa, Brian Richards, Jimmy Russell, Trent Paradis, Ashley Stasulis, James Therrien, Bonnie Waldo and Tim Williams.

Navigators staff were also recognized: Deidre Hines, Cindy Berube, Desiree Trepanier, Deborah Wetherell, James Wisser and Aaron DeMillo.