ORLANDO, Fla. – May 15, 2025 – On Friday, May 16, 2025, the Greater Orlando Chapter of the American Red Cross will celebrate its first annual Salute to Heroes Breakfast at the American Legion, Department of Florida on 1912 A. Lee Road in Orlando. The event will recognize the heroic acts of incredible people from around the Greater Orlando area.

The event will honor the Red Cross humanitarian mission and celebrate local individuals who have gone above and beyond to save a life or make our community better. We will recognize those whose bravery, dedication, and humanitarian efforts create a meaningful, positive impact.

“The first-ever Salute to Heroes Breakfast hosted by our Board of Directors is a powerful reminder of the courage, compassion, and resilience that lives within our community,” said Janice Moran, Executive Director of the Greater Orlando Chapter. “By sharing the stories of everyday heroes, we not only honor their extraordinary actions, but also inspire others to step forward, serve, and uplift those around them. This event has ignited a sense of unity and pride across Greater Orlando -- and it’s only the beginning. We can’t wait for next year.”

The Greater Orlando Heroes Breakfast raises money for the Red Cross where it’s needed most, to support thousands of people from year to year who require Red Cross assistance. Here in Florida, that includes our disaster response efforts for home fires and our work with military members, their families, and veterans.

This year’s event is emceed by Emmy award-winning ABC WFTV anchor and reporter Daralene Jones. Speakers include Janice Moran and Red Cross Board of Directors Chair Renee Holderbach. A complete list of both hero categories and sponsorship opportunities can be found at redcross.org/CFLHEROES.

With tremendous gratitude, we acknowledge presenting sponsors Lockheed Martin and Tijuana Flats (Just In Queso Foundation), with Hero Award sponsors HKS Architects, Inc., and Paul Davis Restoration, and WFTV 9 Family Connection.

The American Red Cross of Central Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands serves 19 Florida counties through five chapters: Florida’s Space Coast (Daytona Beach), Greater Orlando, Mid-Florida (Winter Haven), Southwest Florida (Sarasota) and Tampa Bay; and the Virgin Islands territories of St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John and Water Island. For more information, visit redcross.org. Also find us on Facebook and X (Twitter).

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 or CruzRojaAmericana.org or follow us on social media.