DANBURY — The United Way of Western Connecticut (UWWC) is accepting nominations to honor local individuals and groups during its 3rd Annual Hometown Heroes Benefit Dinner in February 2016 at The Amber Room Colonnade in Danbury.

Nominations may be submitted from the towns of Bethel, Bridgewater, Brookfield, Danbury, Kent, New Fairfield, New Milford, Newtown, Redding, Ridgefield, Roxbury, Sherman, Warren and Washington. 

There are many unsung heroes who live in these local communities who lead by example, give back to others because it feels good to do so, and demonstrate a strong commitment to making an impact on the lives of others. A Hometown Hero distinguishes him or herself through their philanthropy and volunteerism.

The following criteria are taken into consideration in selecting an honoree:

*Achievement: the nominee’s actual accomplishment produced significant results;

*Action: the involvement of the nominee is active and hands-on;

*Caring: as demonstrated by the nominee’s interaction with others;

*Commitment: the nominee has a sincere belief in their community;

*Impact: the nominee’s activity or program produced/produces positive changes, provided (or continues to provide) examples for other groups;

*Initiative: the nominee recognizes a need in their local community and initiates new programs or activities to meet that need;

*Leadership: the nominee demonstrates singular leadership to contribute to their community; and

*Time: the nominee dedicates considerable time and energy to making a difference in their community.

Visit uwwesternct.org/hometown-heroes-nomination-form to complete the online nomination form by Monday, October 26, 2015. UWWC plans to select honorees by mid-November.

Proceeds from the event February awards event will benefit ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households throughout northern Fairfield and southern Litchfield counties. United Way defines ALICE households as those households which earn above the basic Federal Poverty Level but below a basic cost-of-living threshold. ALICE households live paycheck to paycheck and don’t have enough money for basic needs including housing, child care, food, transportation, and health care.

The keynote speaker will be Sonia Manzano, best known in her role as Maria on the PBS television show Sesame Street.

Kim Morgan, CEO of United Way of Western Connecticut, said those who serve their local communities are rarely honored for their selfless acts.

“We invite you to help us recognize these outstanding individuals who devote themselves to helping those in need,” she said.

For more information about Hometown Heroes, please contact Irene Seguin at irene.seguin@uwwesternct.org or 203-883-6711.