BRISTOL — United Way of Addison County held its annual Community Celebration on May 28. The event was sponsored by Mary’s at Baldwin Creek and Bristol Financial Services, and generously hosted by Linda Harmon and Doug Mack in Mary’s beautiful barn and with fabulous food. Awards were given to businesses, nonprofits and individuals this year. The event was held to honor and thank those businesses and community members who worked to make Addison County strong by supporting this year’s campaign.
The Senior High School Student Volunteer Award, which is awarded to a high school senior who has shown initiative and creativity in developing a community service project and has performed services that have had a positive impact on the community and on themselves, was sponsored by Middlebury Eye Associates, National Bank of Middlebury, and Texture Salon. This year’s award had three nominees: Dana Ambrose Jr. of Vergennes Union High School, and Nathan Cobb and Lejla Mahmuljin, both of Middlebury Union High School. The winner this year was Nathan Cobb for his work with the Open Door Clinic. Nathan chose to donate his cash award to the Open Door Clinic. 
Businesses were recognized for their support of payroll campaigns, increases in their participation of the campaign through dollars given or employees participating. All corporate donors were recognized and thanked. Many community impact volunteers, loyal donors, and the marvelous mail ladies were in attendance to be recognized.
The Dine United Way program recognized the following local restaurants for their generosity in participating in donating a portion of profits on specific days this past fall: Fire & Ice, Green Peppers, Jessica’s at the Swift House, Morgan’s Tavern at the Middlebury Inn, Two Brothers Tavern, Carol’s Hungry Mind Café, Storm Café, Bobcat Café, and the Waybury Inn.
The Partners Award was given to businesses that teamed up with United Way of Addison County to both sponsor and host a fundraising event. Middlebury Fitness and Eagle Country 97.5 both received this award. They hosted January’s SPIN United and December’s Giving Tuesday events respectively. The Triple Hitter Award for businesses that support United Way with a community gift and a payroll campaign, and by allowing staff time to volunteer in the community went to Hannaford Food & Pharmacy. Hannaford also held several “yard sales” on the business property throughout the year.
Two local agencies shared stories with the audience about the work they do and the impact it has had on the community and on specific individuals. Through story Mercedez Schackett, a student participating in the Foxcroft Farm Harvest Program, and Charlotte Blend from Lund, showed the link between local support of United Way and the difference it makes to organizations such as theirs.
United Way of Addison County is committed to continuing to identify ways the community can be made stronger and to create opportunities for all. United Way believes that when the community works together, that community can create an impact much greater than any one entity on its own. This event showcased an incredible community coming together to make Addison County a better place for all who live here.
To see complete lists of recognitions visit the UWAC website at www.unitedwayaddisoncounty.org or drop by the office at 48 Court St. to read the posters on the walls.