Seattle-based Talking Rain Beverage Co., the maker of Sparkling Ice beverages, announced the second annual Cheers to Heroes campaign to honor and celebrate America’s everyday heroes. To kick off this year’s campaign, the Sparkling Ice brand is teaming up with one of America’s favorite hometown heroes: three-time Olympic Gold Medalist Gabby Douglas.

The Cheers to Heroes campaign was created to recognize unsung heroes across our country who have dedicated their lives to serving their communities. Last year, the call-to-action contest received thousands of nominations and heartfelt stories honoring local heroes ― from first responders, community activists, teachers, healthcare workers and more. The winner of the 2020 Cheers to Heroes contest was local restaurant owner, Rosako Bailey of Bedford, Texas, who was recognized for his dedication to feeding homeless veterans.

Beginning in April, consumers across the country can nominate a hero who makes a difference in their community for a chance for the hero to win $10,000. Cheers to Heroes nominations can be submitted through May 31 on the following online submission form: www.sparklingicerewards.com/cheerstoheroes.

“Being an athlete has allowed me to become a role model and hero for many people, which I am forever grateful for,” Douglas said in a statement. “Through the Sparkling Ice Cheers to Heroes campaign, it’s now America’s turn to honor our own by celebrating and championing their hard work, drive and determination. I’m looking forward to hearing all of the amazing stories about the heroes in your lives.”

In addition to the $10,000 grand prize, nominees will have a chance to win first-, second- and third-place prizes valued at $7,500, $5,000, and $500, respectively. Because the contest received more than 3,000 inspiring and heartwarming nominations last year, the brand plans to award 300 nominees with the 3rd place, $500 cash prize as a way to further celebrate and thank the heroes for their community service. 

“This past year has been challenging for our country, however, these challenges have presented greater opportunities for us to step up and support our local communities,” said Chris Hall, chief executive officer of Talking Rain. “We’re thrilled with the success of last year’s Cheers to Heroes contest, and this year, we’re continuing to stand by our mission of giving back. Everyday heroes may not always receive the recognition they deserve, and our goal is to bring a little bit of joy to these honorable people for their dedication and commitment to their hometowns.”

At the end of the nomination period, the Sparkling Ice brand will identify the Top 3 submissions, which will be voted on throughout the month of July on the Sparkling Ice Rewards website. One grand-prize winner will be announced Aug. 13. The finalist’s nominators also will receive a $500 incentive.

In honor of this year’s Cheers to Heroes campaign, Talking Rain will continue to support our nation’s military heroes through the company’s sixth annual partnership with The Honor Flight Network, a nonprofit organization that honors America’s veterans. During the course of Talking Rain’s partnership with Honor Flight, the company has raised more than $600,000, sponsoring more than 600 veteran trips to Washington, D.C., through past initiatives and donations from vendors, partners and individuals.