LEWISTON — The Lewiston Fire Department was surprised with the Community Builder Award, a new recognition to celebrate businesses, nonprofits and individuals who exemplify the spirit of giving back to their communities, at the United Way of Androscoggin County annual meeting on June 11.

Recipients are touted as helping to identify and take steps toward solutions for significant issues in the community — those who are willing to ask the next questions, take the next steps and find the needed resources or create community in new ways.

The Lewiston Fire Department, represented at the United Way’s annual meeting by Chief Paul LeClair and Administrative Assistant Joyce Ruby, was presented with a plaque of appreciation. United Way President Joleen Bedard noted, “We all are aware that fire and police employees are always ready — 24/7.”

Bedard continued in reference to the fires in Lewiston over a nine-day period, “The Lewiston Fire Department and area responders are to be commended for their hard work that continued even after the last fire was out. No lives were lost and demolition of the blighted buildings offers downtown Lewiston new possibilities.”

Other recipients of the award were the Auburn School Department early childhood team leader Linda Levia, recognized for bringing a unique perspective and thorough knowledge of early childhood needs in Androscoggin County to United Way’s assessment and decision-making process; president and general manager of WMTW-TV News 8 Dave Able, who broadcast on-air editorials discussing the importance of education and several on-air editorials advocating for increased resources for early childhood development; and Erin Reed of the Trinity Jubilee Center, a tireless advocate for victims of recent fires in Lewiston, known by her neighbors for her generous heart and genuine commitment to improving the community.