Do you know a hometown hero who has gone above and beyond for their community during a time of need? If so, submissions are still open until Monday, July 7 to nominate a first responder for the NACS Foundation’s inaugural First Responder of the Year Award. The form takes less than two minutes to complete. Anyone can nominate a hero—from the public and family members to convenience store and fuel retailing employees and fellow colleagues of the first responder. From 9-1-1 dispatchers and American Red Cross volunteers to doctors, nurses, firefighters or police, any first responder is eligible.

The winner of the First Responder of the Year Award will get free gas for a year, compliments of NACS partner GSTV, and all nominees will receive a certificate of recognition as part of this year’s 24/7 Day celebrations.

“The convenience industry has a front-row seat to the first responder community’s work, often operating the only stores and gas stations open during times of disaster,” said Kevin O’Connell, executive director of the NACS Foundation. “Realizing that so much of what these heroes do is out of public view, we wanted to recognize their compassion and dedication to keeping us safe.”

Following a year marked by devastating natural disasters, including historic wildfires, catastrophic flooding and powerful hurricanes, our nation witnessed first-hand the bravery and commitment of the many first responders who run toward danger when communities need to evacuate or flee. This award goes to shine a spotlight on the extraordinary effort of those individuals and continue to spotlight the incredible relationship between the convenience industry and first responder community.

To learn more about 24/7 Day and get involved, visit www.conveniencecares.org.