At its second annual Heroes Gala in September, the Douglas County Community Foundation will spotlight a group of people dedicated to community service.
“This unforgettable evening of inspiration and celebration will raise awareness and provide support,” Tera Radloff, chair of the Douglas County Community Foundation, said in a statement.
The 2024 Hero Awards ceremony, scheduled to take place on September 13 at Signature Aviation South at Centennial Airport, will recognize the service and bravery of a first responder, member of the armed forces, veteran and community-minded individual who achieves success through their life-changing work.
Recipients include Cpl. Grant Collins of the Lone Tree Police Department, with special honors for the Douglas County Community Response Team, Clinician Sophia Lind of Douglas County Search and Rescue, and Emily M. Davenport of Colorado Wildlife Rescue and Rocky Mountain Wildlife Alliance.
Veteran US Marine Cpl. Ryan Garza will also receive an award.
Just last year, Garza received a custom-built home in Sterling Ranch as part of the Helping a Hero 100 Homes Challenge, a nonprofit initiative to house veterans.
For over a decade, Garza had observed October 3 as his “Alive Day.” On that day years ago, his convoy was hit by an explosive device while deployed to Afghanistan, resulting in the loss of his right leg and a traumatic brain injury.
After his service, Garza told the Douglas County News-Press that he struggled with his mental health but found strength in helping others deal with their depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. He even wrote a children’s book called “My Journey from Guilt to Forgiveness.”
“These award winners have had a profound impact on the Douglas County community,” said Radloff. “They embody true heroism in the truest sense of the word.”
Additional recognition will be given to finalists in the Law Enforcement category from the Parker Police Department and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.
The evening will include first responder demonstrations, interactive fire and rescue operations, military demonstrations, community cocktails and mocktails. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the honorees and may have their photo taken with members of the Denver Broncos Super Bowl 50 team.
The awards ceremony begins at 7 p.m. and includes special performances by country artist Tate Stevens. The evening concludes with a “Light Up The Night” fireworks display.
Funds raised at the gala will benefit the Douglas County Community Foundation’s Community Emergency Relief Fund. The fund was established to directly assist the community, nonprofit partners and first responders during disasters that impact the community, and also ensures that emergency relief funds can be accessed and distributed quickly.
More: Signature Aviation South at Centennial Airport is located at 8001 S. Interport Blvd. in Englewood. Tickets are available at aesbid.org/ELP/DCCF24/Tickets.
