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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