Do You Know A Hero? Red Cross seeks nominations

The Aroostook County Branch of the American Red Cross-Pine Tree Chapter, Northern Maine Community College and WAGM TV are planning the 12th Annual Real Heroes Breakfast to be held Thursday, April 1, 2010 at Northern Maine Community College.
It’s not too early to nominate a hero for next year’s event. Community members are asked to consider nominating an individual or group who has shown courage, kindness, and unselfish character by his, her or their act(s) of heroism.
“The concept of the Real Heroes Breakfast has grown from a desire to develop an event that is closely related to the mission of the American Red Cross, which is teaching people to save lives,” said Joyce Knorr, Aroostook County Branch manager for the Red Cross.  “The Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster and helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. Local trained and certified Red Cross disaster volunteers provided over $23,000 of emergency services to 116 Aroostook County individuals last year. These volunteers gave nearly 1,500 hours of their time putting his or her needs aside to help others.  I can think of no better way to celebrate this spirit of humanitarianism then by nominating and recognizing heroes who are in our own community!”
Nominations are being accepted until February 13, 2010.  Nominees must meet the following criteria for consideration of a Heroes Award:  The individual or group must be residents of or employed in Aroostook County — or have performed the act in Aroostook County.
The heroic act must be relevant with the mission of the American Red Cross and must have occurred during April 3, 2009 to February 12, 2010. The nomination form should also include a detailed statement that clearly explains the incident or act that occurred and may be accompanied with supporting documentation such as news articles, reports, photos and names/telephone numbers of witnesses.
“A Heroes Advisory Committee of community leaders will select next year’s Real Hero Award winners from nominations submitted by community members in February 2010,” said Jason Parent of Northern Maine Community College. “The individuals selected as Real Heroes will be invited to attend the 12th annual Real Heroes Breakfast and Awards Ceremony.”
Businesses and organizations can also play a part by sponsoring a Real Hero at the breakfast.  Proceeds are used locally and go to assist victims of disaster in Aroostook County.
To nominate a local hero, call the  American Red Cross-Pine Tree Chapter at 493-4620, ext. 108 or e-mail knorrj@pinetree.redcross.org.