WINTHROP – The Winthrop Spirit of America Chapter has announced winners for the year. The awards are presented each year for outstanding volunteerism in the community. The awards presentation was held recently at the Winthrop Congregational Church vestry.

Chuck AuCoin, chapter president, was master of ceremonies. He was assisted by Kevin Cookson, Winthrop Council chairman. Special music was provided by Joyce Fessenden of Winthrop on the piano.

The speaker was Maria Connors, communications director of United Way of Kennebec Valley. She spoke about the youth of the communities and some of the volunteering they have been doing. She said the youth find it enjoyable, that it gives them a sense of purpose and a feeling of accomplishment.

The categories and the winners, as chosen by a panel of judges, were as follows: Adult, Jackie Kempton, who spends countless hours at Christmas time making sure every family in the community has gifts, food and clothing; senior adult, Al Godfrey for his work with the Winthrop Red Cross blood drive, among other volunteering efforts; and ongoing project, the Winthrop Lions Club, Scott Foster, chairman, for work and donations for three $750 scholarships that are given each year to Winthrop High School students.

The three winners were chosen from 12 nominations. All the nominees were thanked and presented with a certificate acknowledging their service to the community. The winners were presented with trophies in addition to their certificates.

At the close of the ceremony refreshments were served by the members of the church Women’s Guild.