Applications are being accepted through March 7 for Chicago teens and adults who have made a positive impact in their communities.
To qualify for the Heroes in the ‘Hood award, nominees must be between the ages of 13 and 18, live in the city of Chicago and have performed the community service in 2011.
Winners will receive a trip to Springfield, Ill., or to a local outing (in 2010, winners were provided transportation and tickets to a White Sox game); a plaque or certificate honoring their achievement; media coverage in the Chicago Crusader and other outlets; a T-shirt and a goodie bag.
Adults who have made extraordinary efforts to promote non-violence through their schools or organization-based programs will also be recognized with the Stop the Violence award.
Nominees must be a principal, teacher, counselor or community leader who have developed a prevention, education or outreach project designed to reduce teen violence.
The winner will receive a prize of $1,000, donated by GO Airport Express and the Chicago Crusader, for their school or project.
All nominees are invited to an award ceremony at the DuSable Museum April 26, where the winners will be announced. Awards will be presented to the top three individuals; the top group; and the Stop the Violence winner.
All nominees will be presented a certificate for their efforts.
Founded in 1993 by GO Airport Express, the Chicago Crusader and the DuSable Museum, Heroes in the ‘Hood recognizes and rewards outstanding teens from economically disadvantaged Chicago neighborhoods.
Since the programs inception, more than 400 Chicago teens have been honored for donating time and talent to their communities.
The Stop the Violence award was added to the program in 2008.
To learn more about Heroes in the ‘Hood or to nominate a hero, click here.