First Responder of the Year Award

Building on 24/7 Day (July 24), The NACS Foundation First Responder of the Year Award recognizes outstanding first responders —including a new K9 Award for 2026—whose courage and dedication rise above in moments of need. Honorees are celebrated on 24/7 Day with national and local recognition and a special award package designed to show our appreciation.

2026 Nominations Now Open

A celebration of those heroes who go above and beyond in times of crisis.

Nominate a First Responder


Congratulations to our 2025 winners!

Charles Biery, American Red Cross Volunteer in Newport, KY

Angela Ryan, Volunteer Firefighter & Casey’s Team Member in Marshall, IN

Kevin Umscheid, Volunteer Fire Chief & Full-Time Fuel Driver at Dara’s Corner Market in Wamego/St. George, KS

Frequently Asked Questions


Who is eligible to be nominated?
Any first responder in the United States includes firefighters, EMS personnel, police officers, 911 dispatchers, nurses, and Red Cross volunteers. Nominees should have demonstrated extraordinary service to their community during a crisis.

Who can submit a nomination?
Anyone—retailers, coworkers, community members, or family and friends. You do not need to work in the convenience industry to nominate someone.

What are the judging criteria?
Nominees will be evaluated on:

  • Impact – How did their actions make a meaningful difference?
  • Courage – Did they go above and beyond the call of duty?
  • Community Service – How did they support the people they serve, especially in challenging moments?
  • Alignment with 24/7 Day values – Dedication, reliability, and service to others

Who selects the winners?
A committee of industry representatives, NACS Foundation staff, and community partners will review all submissions and select the honorees.

What do the winners receive?
Bonus Prize: Free Gas for a Year
Thanks to our partner GSTV, the top one First Responder of the Year Award winner will receive free gas for one year (up to $2,500 value) as part of their recognition package.

The top three First Responder of the Year Award recipients will each receive:

  • National and Local Recognition
    Honored on 24/7 Day (July 24) through our national campaign and in partnership with their local community and participating retailer.
  • Commemorative Award Plaque
    A personalized First Responder of the Year plaque recognizing their extraordinary service and impact.
  • Retailer Gift Card
    A gift card from a participating local convenience retailer to thank them for their dedication.
  • Appreciation Gift Bag
    A curated product bag filled with items from our supplier partner(s), designed to celebrate and support their service.

What's the timeline?

  • Nominations Open: April 15, 2026
  • Nominations Close: June 1, 2026
  • Winners Notified: By July 3, 2026
  • Public Recognition: July 24, 2026 (24/7 Day)

Do nominees have to be affiliated with a recent disaster?
No. While spotlighting first responders involved in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and the Los Angeles wildfires, we welcome nominations from across the country. A crisis can take many forms—natural disasters, emergencies, or moments where someone went above and beyond.

Still have questions? Email us at support@conveniencecares.org.