AUBURN – There are many attributes that make a great volunteer. Responsible and dependable are two of those attributes of the Auburn-Lewiston YMCA’s selection for the Volunteer of the Year, Jamie Thompson.

Thompson came to the YMCA as an active member of the fitness center. She soon became more involved and was recruited as a volunteer.

Her main role and duties are assisting those in the fitness center, but as with most great volunteers, she is always willing to lend a hand where she is needed, whether it is at the front desk or helping out in the baby-sitting room.

She naturally possesses and displays the YMCA values and has become a huge asset in helping the YMCA meet its goals and mission.

“Our YMCA works with and relies on program volunteers, so we can certainly appreciate the true value of someone like Jamie,” said Doug McFarland, YMCA health and fitness director. “She always has a smile on her face when she comes through the doors. Her dedication, compassion and positive attitude are other qualities that made her an easy choice to be this year’s recipient.”

Thompson, an avid kayaker, resides in Turner and is a graduate of Leavitt Area High School. She attended the University of Maine at Farmington, graduating with a BS in education.

After teaching for a few years at Auburn Middle School, Thompson decided to further her education and is working toward a master’s in nutrition at the University of Maine at Orono, where she commutes to class three times a week.

For more information on any program, visit the YMCA at 62 Turner St., call 795-4095 or visit www.alymca.com.