First Responder of the Year Award

Submit A Hero to Be Honored By the NACS Foundation and the Convenience Store Industry

Each year, the NACS Foundation unites the entire convenience store industry by celebrating 24/7 Day, bringing together more than 30,000 convenience stores to thank first responders for all they do in times of need. Now, we're expanding this celebration of first responders with the inaugural First Responder of the Year Award, a celebration of those heroes who go above and beyond in times of crisis.

First responders rise to the occasion when we need them most and they respond to any number of emergencies. From natural disasters and everyday accidents to medical emergencies and hazardous material incidents, it all counts when there is a moment of great need.

From 9-1-1 dispatchers, nurses, firefighters, police, EMT, and Red Cross volunteers, there are many types of first responders. This award is an opportunity to say "thank you" to those who selflessly commit themselves to helping others and let them know we see their sacrifice, passion, and effort.

Do you know a first responder that has gone above and beyond in a time of need? Fill out the nomination form below to nominate someone you know who has risen to the occasion for their community.

Nominee Info

First Name

Last Name

Job Title / First Responder Role

Agency / Department / Employer

Email (if applicable)

Phone (if applicable)

City

State

Brief Description of Why You're Nominating This Hero:

Supporting material: Link to any news articles, pictures, video(s), previous awards, etc.

Link to any news articles, pictures, video(s), previous awards, etc.

Has this nominee been involved in a recent disaster response (e.g., Hurricane Helene, L.A. wildfires, or other national, regional, or local effort in the last 12 months)? If yes, please specify which event and the role the first responder has played in response and/or recovery.

Nominator Info

Your First Name

Your Last Name

Your Email

Your Relationship to the Nominee

Would you be willing to be contacted for a follow-up if your nominee is selected?

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?
Each winner will be formally recognized by the NACS Foundation, featured in national and local media, and celebrated on 24/7 Day (July 24). Additional recognition and prizes may be included.

What's the timeline?

Nominations Open: June 1, 2025
Nominations Close: July 7, 2025
Winners Notified: By July 15, 2025
Public Recognition: July 24, 2025 (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 [email protected].