SAN DIEGO (September 21, 2026) – The American Red Cross of San Diego and Imperial Counties is pleased to announce the local heroes that will be honored at the 24th Annual Real Heroes Awards on Friday, October 2, from 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. aboard the USS Midway Museum.

The Real Heroes Awards recognizes individuals and organizations that embody the mission and spirit of the Red Cross by saving lives and creating safer, stronger and more resilient communities. From lifesaving rescues to extraordinary volunteerism, this year's heroes exemplify the power of humanity in action.

2026 Real Heroes Honorees:
Honoree photos are available on Flickr. Click here to view and download photos.

Good Samaritan Hero: Amorous Blackman (Murrieta, Calif.)

Amorous Blackman demonstrated remarkable bravery when she stopped to assist at a serious freeway crash and rescued a man from a burning vehicle. Despite the danger to herself, she provided first aid, comforted the injured victim and remained on scene until emergency responders arrived. Her selfless actions and quick thinking helped save a life and serve as an inspiring example of compassion in action.

Youth Hero: Nicole Hank (San Diego, Calif.)

At just 18 years old, Nicole Hank demonstrated extraordinary courage and compassion when she intervened to prevent a woman from committing suicide on the side of the road. Nicole safely restrained the woman, calmed her during a mental health crisis and stayed by her side until police arrived. Her quick actions, empathy, and determination helped protect a life when it was needed most.

Service to the Armed Forces Hero: Selah Marting (San Diego, Calif.)

For the past ten years, Selah Marting has dedicated her career to supporting veterans and active-duty service members through Paws for Purple Hearts. As Senior Program Instructor, she has led canine-assisted therapy programs that help military personnel navigate challenges such as PTSD, traumatic brain injuries and mobility limitations while fostering healing, confidence and connection. Through her leadership in therapy, outreach and service dog training, Selah has positively impacted thousands of warriors and their families, making a lasting difference in the military community.

Gift of Life Hero: San Diego State University (San Diego, Calif.)

San Diego State University (SDSU) has spent nearly a decade partnering with the American Red Cross through its annual Aztecs for Life Blood Drive, which has become California’s largest one-day collegiate blood drive. Since its inception, the drive has collected over 2,700 units of blood, helping thousands of patients in need of lifesaving transfusions. Through strong campus-wide participation and outreach, SDSU has fostered a lasting culture of service and generosity.

Disaster Services Hero: San Diego Gas & Electric’s Fire Safety Goats (San Diego, Calif.)

San Diego Gas & Electric’s Fire Safety Goats have become a unique and effective force in wildfire prevention throughout San Diego County. Since 2021, these goats have helped reduce fire risk by clearing dry vegetation in difficult terrain - creating natural fire breaks and protecting communities, infrastructure and natural habitats. Their work also promotes environmental sustainability while engaging residents in wildfire preparedness and safety education.

Animal Welfare Hero: Michelle Cohn (San Diego, Calif.)

Michelle Cohn has devoted more than a decade to improving the lives of animals and people through her work with the San Diego Humane Society. With over 25,000 volunteer hours and more than 400 foster animals cared for, she has helped save hundreds of vulnerable animals while inspiring others to foster, adopt and volunteer. Her innovative outreach efforts, including therapy puppy visits for first responders, have strengthened both animal welfare and community well-being.

First Responder Hero: José Almaraz Macias (Lemon Grove, Calif.)

San Diego County Sherrif's Office Deputy José Almaraz Macias displayed extraordinary courage and professionalism when he encountered a stabbing victim suffering from life-threatening injuries. He quickly applied a tourniquet and provided lifesaving care while managing a dangerous scene until medical personnel arrived. His heroic actions are credited with saving the victim’s life. He later assisted in the successful apprehension of the suspect, exemplifying true dedication to public safety.

Corporate Hero: Hunter Industries (San Marcos, Calif.)

Hunter Industries has demonstrated a longtime commitment to community service through its generous support of the Red Cross, contributing more than $160,000 in lifetime support. Hunter's commitment to strengthening communities extends beyond disaster response. Through its Community Impact Grant program, the company has awarded more than $1 million in grants to 80 nonprofit organizations yearly, reflecting its deep investment in creating positive and lasting change.

This year’s Real Heroes Awards is made possible thanks to generous sponsors, including Hometown Hero Sponsor Sycuan Casino Resort; Humanitarian Sponsor Falck; Regional Sponsor U.S. Bank; Presenting Sponsors Amazon, Paula and Michael Downey, Kaiser Permanente, Mission Fed Credit Union, Mike Pack and San Diego City Firefighters Local 145, as well as other local sponsors.

This year's event donations will benefit Red Cross Disaster Relief. From flooding in Texas and Indiana to wildfires in Oregon, Washington, Nevada and California, the Red Cross has been there for thousands of people across the nation - providing vital relief and tangible help and hope - to ensure no one faces a disaster alone. Donations to Red Cross Disaster Relief will help the organization continue to deliver compassionate care to people in need.

Nominations for the Real Heroes Awards are accepted year-round. Tickets and sponsorships are available now. For more information, visit redcross.org/SanDiego/RealHeroes.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/SoCal or cruzrojaamericana.org, or connect with the Southern California Region on X, Instagram, YouTube or Facebook.

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