FREEPORT — Molina Medicaid Solutions in Maine, based in Augusta, recently recognized three individuals, including Freeport resident Valerie Gamache, for their community work at its first annual Community Champions Awards event.

Gamache was recognized for her 16 years of volunteer work with the National Alliance on Mental Illness. As the president of the Bath- Brunswick chapter, she facilitates its support group and serves as vice president on the NAMI Maine board of directors.

In addition, Gamache has taught 23 12-week family-tofamily education courses for family members who have loved ones suffering from mental illnesses. She has also been a foster parent while serving on several commissions at her church and a family council of the local nursing home. She also makes Sunday visits to the Behavioral Health Unit at the hospital.

“Valerie is truly a selfless and giving person,” Peter Gray, executive account manager for Molina Medicaid Solutions in Maine, said in a release about the award. “The work she does through NAMI and other community organizations is incredibly important and impacting.”

Community-based organizations nominated this year’s winners, who received $1,000 grants to give to deserving nonprofit organizations as part of their awards. Gamache gave her grant back to NAMI Maine.

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