Do you know a hero — someone who has saved a life, made our community a safer place or gone above and beyond to help someone in need? Each year, the American Red Cross of the Ohio River Valley presents awards to local heroes who saved lives, exemplified the Red Cross mission or made significant, positive differences in our community in the areas of emergency response, disaster preparedness and prevention.

The individuals are recognized at the Red Cross Heroes Breakfast set for Thursday, Aug. 13, at the Friend’s Community Center. The breakfast begins 7:30 a.m. and concludes 9:15 a.m. so guests may get to work or to other obligations.

“Heroes come in many shapes and sizes, in the past we have honored individuals, groups, adults, children and even pets,” said ORV Red Cross Executive Director Debbie Smith. “We appreciate creative nominations.”

Hero categories include: Blood/Tissue/Organ Hero; CPR/AED/First Aid Hero; Community Hero; Military/Veteran Hero; Fire/Preparedness Hero; Adult Good Samaritan; Workplace Hero; Wellness Hero; Youth Good Samaritan; Volunteer Hero; Volunteer Hero; and the Marcia Sanderlin Hero Award, which is presented to a Red Cross volunteer or supporter who has gone above and beyond expectations either as a volunteer or financial supporter.

Nominations are due no later than Friday, July 10. When nominating a group, at least one individual from the group must reside in Jackson, Pike, Lawrence, Adams, Brown or Scioto counties. The act of heroism must have occurred after July 1, 2014, or be ongoing. Nomination forms may be picked up at the Red Cross office, 1801 Robinson Ave., or downloaded from the Red Cross ORV Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ORVredcross.

Sponsorships are being solicited as well. Anyone interested in becoming a Hero Sponsor may contact the ORV Red Cross at 740-354-3293. Tickets for the event are $10 per person or $25 for patron seats.

All proceeds help support local disaster prevention, preparation and relief, the lifesaving training of first aid, CPR/AED classes, collection and testing of blood and blood products, support to military members serving around the globe, the transportation program, and international programs provided by the American Red Cross.