When it comes to Special Olympics, Boothbay Harbor Police Department’s Administrative Assistant Maureen Smith is all in. She has worked diligently in support of the Special Olympics since 1989. Smith donates her time and energy to fundraising and also works at the Special Olympics events themselves to ensure their success.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run raises dollars and awareness in support of the Special Olympics. Each year in Maine, over 700 law enforcement officers participate in the run or in the many related fundraising events. Smith serves as Leg Leader for the Camden to West Bath leg of the annual statewide Torch Run, and organizes and participates in the Fueling Dreams fundraiser and the annual celebrity golf tournament in Boothbay. In 2015, the Maine Law Enforcement Torch Run raised over $400,000 dollars for the Special Olympics.

At  the Law Enforcement Torch Run Kick Off Conference in Portland on March 24, Smith was recognized with the Maine Law Enforcement Torch Run’s Unsung Hero Award.

The Award’s inscription reads, “For continuously going above and beyond the call of duty with your support and dedication to Special Olympics Maine and the Maine Law Enforcement Torch Run. Although your work has often been behind the scenes, your efforts have not gone unnoticed.”

Despite her many years of dedicated service, Smith said the recognition came as a complete surprise when her name was announced at the banquet.

“It shocked the daylights out of me,” she said, “It was a great honor to be nominated and chosen.”

“Maureen has dedicated her heart and her life to this cause for as long as I’ve known her,” Boothbay Harbor Police Chief Bob Hasch said, “I can’t think of anyone more caring or more deserving of this award.”

Smith said her award reflects the good work of the whole community.

“I couldn’t do what I do without everyone in the community who is involved with Special Olympics.”