Seven heroes were awarded for their work in the community at Bay News 9's Salute to Everyday Heroes luncheon.

Vanessa Howard was in tears after being named the Hero of the Year. She was awarded for her efforts to uplift homeless women.

"It's just humbling," said Vanessa Howard. "It's just humbling. I don't, just as even all the other heroes said, I really don't consider myself a hero. I'm just honored to be able to give back. I see that my pain had purpose. I didn't understand that back then but now I understand my pain had a lot of purpose."

Ryan White was named the Viewer's Choice Hero of the year. He was awarded for his work with at-risk youth.

"It's taken off so fast and I never anticipated being here, the Bay News 9's hero award, but this is an amazing opportunity," said Ryan White.

This is the 11th year for the luncheon to salute Bay News 9's everyday heroes.

"So often it's the unsung heroes that do a lot of great things that don't get on the news that don't get any acclaim for the accomplishments they bring to our community so this is our way of saying thanks for people who do good and give back," said Alan Mason, Corporate Vice President of News and Local Programming.

Outback Steakhouse has sponsored the luncheon since it started.

"Whenever we have an opportunity like this to recognize and honor people who are just as invested if not more invested in our community, we jump at it," said Outback Steakhouse spokesperson Elizabeth Watts.

Here's a list of the heroes who received awards Wednesday.

  1. Young hero – Nicole Clark
  2. Volunteer hero – Roy Merriam
  3. Health advocate hero – Barry & Paula Cohen
  4. Animal advocate hero – Patricia Mason
  5. Education hero – Rob Sinibaldi
  6. Viewers Choice – Ryan White
  7. Hero of the year – Vanessa Howard

The most touching tribute went to a hero who couldn't attend this year's luncheon.

Coach Kris Keppel battled pancreatic cancer while continuing to push his Land O'Lakes track team to succeed.

"I try to remain positive," Keppel said last year.

He lost his battle with cancer in January.