LEWISTON – At the Androscoggin County United Way campaign kick-off on Sept. 17, Lewiston’s Community Relations Coordinator Dottie Perham-Whittier was presented the 2003 Jim Phillips Award.

Presented with a plaque in appreciation of her “initiative, leadership and love of youth within the community,” Perham-Whittier said she was “honored” by the recognition.

According to United Way President Charles Johnson, the award is given annually to an individual who, in both their professional and personal life, “works to shape the community.”

The award was established in memory of Jim Phillips, who previously served as United Way board chairman and as a long-time volunteer who raised monies for various agencies.

Assistant City Administrator Phil Nadeau said, “Dot is a valued member of our team. The quality of her work is only surpassed by her commitment to what she does within this community.”

Perham-Whittier was lauded for her 21 years of service as a city employee, including her involvement with the Lewiston-Auburn Tax Credit Awareness Coalition, the city’s Cultural Diversity Resource Directory, Joint Agencies Recognition Event, Twin Cities Celebrating the Women of LA, the city’s United Way Employee Campaign, the Lewiston Youth Advisory Council, the Lewiston Shining Stars Program and various projects/initiatives/special events facilitated through the mayor’s and administrator’s offices.

Perham-Whittier was also commended for her mentoring of a young girl within the community and her 16-year involvement with youth ministry, including motivational speaking presentations to schools, churches and rallies.