LAS VEGAS — The Nevada Chapter of Community Associations Institute, the leading provider of education and resources for the community associations industry in the state, is seeking nominations for its annual Heroes event, which will take place Sept. 7 at the Gold Coast Hotel. Nominations are being accepted through July 6.

The annual event, which started in 2002, was initially intended to recognize Heroes who were lost or involved in relief efforts during Sept. 11. The program, however, has evolved over the years to include a vast array of categories to recognize the achievements and selfless dedication of individuals and organizations throughout Nevada.

“This annual event has been a phenomenal way to honor those who help our community,” said CAI Nevada chapter executive director Mary Rendina. “Our association is proud to recognize those who show altruistic efforts with truly good intentions.”

Those interested in nominating Heroes can visit www.cai-nevada.org and click on the Heroes Luncheon link. Among the 2010 Heroes nomination categories are:

• 9-11 – this award is given to an individual or group that either went to one of the 9-11 sites to help with the rescue and clean-up, or has “invented” or “created” something to share with others that “came into being” because of the 9-11 tragedy. It must benefit and/or educate others or contribute to the betterment of individuals or groups.

• Community Service Volunteer – this award is given in recognition of someone that contributes to the community. This effort must have been conducted for the benefit of others with no thought of self-promotion or self-benefit.

• Fire department/police department/first responders/medical and social services — while public servants contribute to our community on a daily basis, this award should be for going “above and beyond” what is normally within their job descriptions.

• Life-saving — this award is given in recognition of someone who put his/her personal safety “on the line” to help someone else. This person saw someone in need, and “jumped” in to help without any thought of his or her personal safety.

• Northern Nevada Outstanding Citizen/Organization — this award is given in recognition of an outstanding individual or organization from our northern Nevada area. Performance must have been “above and beyond” with no intent for praise or recognition.

• Southern Nevada Outstanding Citizen/Organization — this award is given in recognition of an outstanding individual or organization from our southern Nevada area. Performance must have been “above and beyond” with no intent for praise or recognition.

• Northern Nevada Youth/Juvenile — given in recognition of a youth that consistently contributes positively to individuals, his/her school or his/her community.

• Southern Nevada Youth/Juvenile — given in recognition of a youth that consistently contributes positively to individuals, his/her school or his/her community.

• Lifetime Achievement in Public Service — the purpose of this award is to recognize individuals who are committed to a cause greater than themselves, dedicating their time and energy to accomplish goals.

For more information, visit www.cai-nevada.org.