The annual Jefferson Awards, which honor everyday heroes who do extraordinary things for others, is seeking nominations.

The award is designed to encourage and honor individuals for their dedication to the community through volunteerism. Sponsored by The Honolulu Advertiser and KGMB-9, the program is supported in communities across the country.

Five people will be selected and recognized at a ceremony in April. One of the recipients will be selected to represent the state and attend the national awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., in June. Last year the five honorees were Ivalee Sinclair, Chuck "Doc" Burrows, Wesley Fong, Brian Kajiyama and Ozella Mabson.

The prestigious Jefferson Award for Public Service was founded in 1972 by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, U.S. Sen. Robert Taft Jr. and Sam Beard. It has become the equivalent of the Nobel Prize for public and community service during the last 30 years.

Nominations must be submitted by Feb. 27. There are four ways to nominate your favorite unsung hero: