BRIDGTON — Surrounded by family, friends, local clergy and parishioners, an unassuming quiet leader, 92-year-old Almira Taft Oliver received the 16th annual Bishop Amedee Proulx Award recently.
The award was established to give recognition to an individual or individuals in Maine whose contributions reflect the mission of Catholic Charities Maine and foster Catholic social teachings. It is given for outstanding volunteer service to the parish and/or the community in the past year or years.
During her children’s growing years Oliver nurtured a unified loving family and consistent beliefs, instilling in her sons the importance of a good work ethic, commitment to the community, a pride in volunteering and a strong belief in God.
A parishioner of St. Joseph’s Church in Bridgton for many years, Oliver is well-known for faithful and selfless dedication to her family, her parish and the community.
Her activities have included serving as president of the St. Joseph’s Women’s Guild; strengthening opportunities for women to further their education; assisting at the food pantry; organizing and serving as hostess at post-funeral receptions; delivering food to the homebound; creating crafts for church functions; and serving on the Church Life Commission.
In her many roles she is involved from start to finish in the planning, preparation, execution, and clean-up.