DES MOINES — The American Red Cross Northern and Central Iowa is asking for nominations of local heroes for the statewide Heroes of the Heartland event to be held in March. The prestigious annual event recognizes a select group of Iowans who have saved a life, gone above and beyond for an individual or group or saw a need in the community and stepped up to fill that need.

Each year, honorees are nominated by peers and the public and then selected by a committee of Red Cross leaders and community members from each Iowa chapter. The heroes among us reflect the best of our communities. They leave a lasting and positive impact on the residents of the communities. As an organization committed to helping people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies, the Red Cross is honored to salute individuals who make a difference.

Nominations can be made at redcross.org/IA, or via written nomination (include contact information) to: American Red Cross, Attn: Emily Holley, 2116 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50312. The deadline to submit a nomination is Jan. 31.

Last year, Unity Point nurses Wendy Rockey and Amber Burke received the award for saving the life of someone who had a cardiac incident in a local restaurant. Maanya Pandey, of Waukee, received the award for her work in founding 501c3 organization Love for Red, which provides sanitary products and education to fight period poverty.