Whether it’s the firefighter or policeman or the kindly neighbor down the street, The Troup-Valley chapter of the American Red Cross is looking for “Hometown Heroes.”

The heroes, nominated in 10 separate categories, will be honored at the annual heroes breakfast, 7:30 a.m. March 19 at Lafayette Garden Inn.

The organization has used “heroes” to campaign for funds for the Red Cross for the last three years. The awards are a new and different and although a fundraising campaign will go on this year, these particular heroes won’t have to raise money, said executive director Connie Hensler.

“We wanted to bring a little more to the Heroes campaign,” she said.

Hometown heroes may be nominated in the following categories: humanitarian; good samaritan (youth and adult awards); military; health and safety; education; environment; emergency response and community partner.

Hensler said the categories encompass all aspects of the community and she’s hoping for many nominees. All nominees will be invited to the breakfast along with chosen winners.

The deadline for nominations is Feb. 20. Nominations may be e-mailed via the chapter Web site, www.lagrangeredcross.org or nominations may be called in to the chapter office, (706) 884-5818.