Do you have someone you feel is your hero? Someone you’d like to show how much they have impacted your life or the lives of others?
That was the impetus when Roper & Sons in Lincoln, Nebraska, established the Here’s To The Heroes award in 2022. We wanted the award campaign to be a way to recognize everyday heroes in our community. An opportunity to say “Thank You” to individuals who go above and beyond to make a difference in other people’s lives.
“Over the years, we’ve been honored to observe the kindness, generosity, and outpouring of love from families and friends during difficult times,” said Rebecca Kouma Shane, director of Outreach and Marketing at Roper & Sons. “It’s the healthcare workers who work extra shifts for their coworkers. It’s neighbors who organize a carpool to ensure the elderly have transportation. It’s teachers who spend hours helping students catch up on their work after an emotional week. These acts of giving truly inspire us and we wanted to let the Lincoln community know about them.”
People like Rose Hood Buss, the Executive Director of The HUB in Lincoln. Rose was nominated for her dedication to improving the lives of so many in our community, specifically those young adults who have been in the foster care system and now need guidance finding housing, jobs, or attending college. Rose was the 2022 recipient of the Here’s to the Heroes award. Ava, a 9-year-old who helped her grandfather who was going through difficult times with an injury, and Patty Niemann, who founded the Eastridge Hospice Choir, were runners-up.
What makes a person a hero?
Most people don’t see themselves as heroes. It’s their actions and what they say that sets them apart. They are honest. They go out of their way to help others. They are protective of the voiceless and marginalized groups who deserve a champion. Other character traits may be that they:
- Display acts of bravery or courage
- Strive each day to make a difference
- Inspire others
- Think of others before themselves
Heroes are people whose personal values give them the strength and self-confidence to find ways to help others.
Nominate your hero
Anyone can nominate someone for the 2023 Here’s to the Heroes award. Nominations can be submitted online at roperandsons.com/heroes or you can pick up a form at Roper & Sons’ Midtown Chapel, 4300 O Street in Lincoln. Nominations must be submitted by September 22, 2023.
The winner of the 2023 Here’s to the Heroes award will be announced at the Hub & Soul event on September 29th. Nominees will be guests of Roper & Sons at the event, held at Union Plaza in Lincoln. The winner will receive a monetary gift of $1,000, and runners-up will also be announced and receive gifts.
We know there are many heroes in our community. We encourage everyone to nominate their hero today.
Roper & Sons Funeral Home has been providing funeral services since 1901, with chapels located in Lincoln, Waverly, and Firth, Nebraska. If you have questions about the award or how to nominate, please call 402-476-1225.