Maine is full of good people doing great things to help others. An off-duty first responder who comes to the aid of a neighborhood. A classroom volunteer who makes a significant impact on the lives of young students. A cashier who administers first aid when an elderly customer was seriously injured in a fall.

If you know of a Good Samaritan who performed an extraordinary act of heroism or courage, the American Red Cross in Maine wants to hear their story.

The Red Cross is accepting nominations for its annual Real Heroes award.

The Real Heroes award recognizes Mainers who have demonstrated acts of heroism, provided outstanding community service, and shown courage, kindness, and unselfish character in service to others:

Past awards have been presented to:

• Military personnel
• Law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other first responders
• Medical Providers
• Teachers
• Teenagers
• Neighbors
• Everyday citizens

Awards will be presented at events in Bangor, Caribou, Lewiston, and Portland beginning in March.

The nomination deadline is Jan. 9, 2015 (Dec/ 31, 2014 for nominations in the Greater Bangor area).

For a nomination form, visit www.maineredcross.org.