Bay News 9 saluted the Everyday Heroes of 2012 Monday at the A La Carte Pavilion in Tampa.
More than 50 Heroes came with friends, family, mentors and associates to meet each other, swap stories and enjoy a lunch provided by Outback Steakhouse.
Seven of the Heroes received special awards.
Anchor Erica Riggins hosted the event and Everyday Heroes reporter Bill Murphy passed out the special trophies.
The Youth Award went to Jaylen Arnold for his work in educating students, parents and teachers on Tourette's Syndrome and bullying.
Volunteer Hero Susan Jacobs started Wheels of Success years ago to provide low-cost transportation to the area's underemployed.
Education Hero Rob Tarrou was honored for reaching out to hundreds of thousands of math students across the globe.
Public Service Hero John McDaniel started Wounded Warriors in Action, an organization that treats Purple Heart recipients to world-class fishing and hunting trips.
Health Advocate Chanel Torres shares her story of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome with others saying the condition is 100% preventable.
The Viewers' Choice Award went to Steve Chamberland for his 50 Legs organization. The former wrestler and amputee raises money to buy artificial legs for young people.
The big winner of the day was 2012 Hero of the Year Ralph Smith of Computer Mentors. He put aside systems and software, codes and keyboards to share his love of computers with young people.
Coverage of the salute can be seen on Bay News 9 On Demand, Channel 342, on Bright House digital cable.