What Is a Hero?

A hero is someone working beyond the scope of his or her job, possibly a volunteer. A hero responds to a social need, or the needs of a person or group. She helps those close to home or abroad. A hero moves out of her comfort zone (i.e., doing something she has no experience with) and may put her well-being or even her life on the line.

July 23, 2007, 1:30 a.m.: Friends Mike Landry, Andy Hilderman and Mark Barnard were driving along Highway 97 in B.C.’s Okanagan Valley when they came upon a car burning in the ditch. Inside, Julie Wharram, 25, was trapped. The three men worked tirelessly to free her, getting her out of the car and up to the road just moments before the vehicle exploded.
Rescue Heroes, 2007

A hero meets a need, reacts in the moment, or feels strongly about some injustice in the world. A hero has had an impact on others; brought innovation to his field to help the less fortunate; developed a program directed at those in need; raised funds for a specific cause; or rescued someone whose life was in jeopardy.

In 1991 Hetty van Gurp’s son died after being pushed by a bully at school. Since then, she has been “waging war” on schools around the world. She developed Peaceful Schools International, an organization that promotes peace and conflict resolution in schools.
Education Hero, 2006

We know that real heroes walk among us every day—you’ve nominated hundreds upon hundreds each year for the last three years. That’s why we’re asking you once again to help us choose this year’s heroes.

Nominate Your Heroes

Tell us which Canadians really stand out for their selflessness, strength, courage and conviction. Make your nominations in these categories: Community Service; Rescue; Health and/or Research; Education; Public Life. Deadline for submissions is August 22, 2008.

• A Reader’s Digest hero is a Canadian citizen or resident.
• A hero can be a man, woman or child.
• He or she must be a living person.
• He has performed an act unrelated to their daily job.
• Please do not nominate the same person more than once.

NOMINATION FORM:

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* Categories:
Community Service
Rescue
Health and/or Research
Education
Public Life

* Hero’s Name:

* Tell us why you’re nominating this person: (max. 100 words):

* May we contact you?
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