In a world that has seemingly gone mad with violence, Everyday Hero winners reminded people there is still a lot of good to be found.

  • Everyday Hero winners share thoughts about what awards mean to them
  • Some winners urge people to volunteer, to give to community

That was the message from many of the recipients of News 13's and Spectrum Network's Everyday Hero annual Salute to Everyday Heroes luncheon on Thursday, March 23, at the Alfond Inn in Winter Park.

"It's nice because it means people are recognizing you and your work," said Volunteer Hero of the Year Johnny Stringer about his award.

Stringer, who is a constant figure in his Orange County community, hopes that his volunteer hours for the Orlando Police Department gives neighbors a sense of security. It is through his experiences that he shares this advice to those who are considering donating their time.

"Give volunteering a try. A lot of people volunteer and you have to see the results and see you will like it," Stringer said.

And those are words echoed by 103-year-old Viewers' Choice Hero of the Year Barbara Mandigo. News 13 viewers selected Mandigo because she makes teddy bears for children with serious illnesses at Camp Boggy Creek in Eustis.

"It's nice to be able to help people and get together," Mandigo said.

Some of the award winners appreciated that their efforts were recognized, such as firefighter for the Lake Mary Fire Department Bruce Williams.

Williams, who helped young brain-cancer sufferer Cameron Fulling to be a firefighter for a day, said it was "one heck of an honor" to be named Public Service Hero of the Year.

Mother Lataasha Byrd is also appreciative that she was recognized as well with the Health Advocate Hero of the Year award, as she gave up her career to stay home and help her 6-year-old daughter Cairo with Down syndrome.

"It seems like my hard work hasn't gone unnoticed. It has paid off," she said.

Education Hero of the Year winner Benoit Glazer shares Byrd's thoughts.

"It's nice to be recognized," said the former musical director for the Cirque de Soleil show, "La Nouba," who has opened his home to give free concerts to the community.

"We work hard to save the arts," Glazer said.

Yet there is a different type of recognition that Carissa Kent likes about her award for Hero of the Year — for the gopher tortoise.

"The gopher tortoises are not well known and this award brings recognition," Kent said, who volunteers her time to rescuing the large animals.

When asked what advice she can give to those who want to help the gopher tortoise, Kent urged that people need to work hard and to never give up.

"Be their voice," she said. "And know how valuable they are."

The only award winner who was not in attendance was Alex Martinez, the Young Hero of the Year.