The American Red Cross is seeking nominations for the “2016 A Night of Heroes & Jazz.” The event honors individuals who have saved a life or otherwise positively impacted their community during the past year. Jill Orton, Executive Director for the Council Bluffs Omaha Chapter, says “Heroes walk among us everyday—the people who put others above themselves—and it’s our pleasure to recognize them during A Night of Heroes & Jazz.”

Awards will be given in the following categories:

Call to Action – presented to an individual who by circumstances beyond their control found themselves in a challenging situation and demonstrated extraordinary courage.

Commitment to Community – presented to an individual, couple, group or organization that has made a tremendous impact on the community through their volunteerism, philanthropy, service to others, or example.

Disaster Relief – presented to an individual or organization who has served an important role in disaster relief in our community.

Gift of Life – presented to an individual, couple, group or organization that supports the lifesaving mission through personal blood or platelet donations or inspiring others to give blood or platelets.

Good Samaritan – presented to an individual who is considered a hero because of their unselfish devotion and concern for the welfare of others.

Lifetime Hero – presented to an individual who inspire others by their example. This individual has overcome hardship, risen above challenges, or dedicated their life to serving others.

Public Servant Hero – presented to an individual who in the line of duty (police, fire, military, medical, etc.) went above and beyond the call.

Residents in the following counties are eligible for the Award: Harrison, Mills and Pottawattamie counties. Nominations may be submitted online at redcross.org/neia or by completing a nomination form. Nominations must be returned to the American Red Cross, 705 N 16th Street, Council Bluffs, IA 51501. The awards will be presented at a dinner event on Saturday, June 4, 2016 at Iowa Western Community College.

Last year, the Red Cross honored Gerry Sue and Sal Rinella of Missouri Valley for their dedication to responding to disasters across western Iowa. The Iowa West Foundation accepted the Red Cross’ Commitment to Community award for their hard work to grow the Council Bluffs Omaha metro, and Jeff Ballenger received the Service to Armed Forces Hero award for his allegiance to helping veterans to Washington D.C. to view military memorials through the “Honor Flights”.