By Ryan Lang, American Red Cross

The American Red Cross of Greater Akron and the Mahoning Valley has been celebrating everyday heroes from the local community for the past 30 years with the annual Acts of Courage event in Akron. On March 5, 2026, that the chapter celebrated its 30^th and final Acts of Courage event marking the end of an era.

“It’s been an absolute honor to be a part of the Acts of Courage event for over ten years,” Rachel Stine, Executive Director of the Greater Akron and Mahoning Valley chapter of the Red Cross said. “This event has showcased those who truly care about community and embody the spirit of the Red Cross.”

In fact, the entire event has embodied the spirit of the Red Cross for decades, and the grand finale was no different. From a Red Cross volunteer saving a life at a local restaurant, to one of our youngest recipients, a seven-year-old girl, calling for help when no one else heard her neighbor, the acts of courage that were on display were astounding.

We also honored this year’s H. Peter Burg Community Leadership Award recipient, Jack McCabe. Jack is a longtime board member and Vice President and General Manager for the Utility Vegetation Management division of Davey Resource Group. Jack is a true servant leader and is making a difference in his community and beyond every day.

See all of the photos from the event here, and tap the videos below to hear the stories from our heroes themselves. Also below is a short vignette that takes you on a journey from where the Red Cross in Greater and Akron the Mahoning Valley was, is, and will be.

As for what the future holds, Rachel says, “You will see your Red Cross over the next 30 years continue to honor even more heroes every day with the volunteers serving and meeting the needs of communities near and far.

Acts of Courage awards recipients:

Chris’ Red Cross training kicked in when a student at the Medina County Career Center needed it most:

Ashley utilized lifesaving skills she learned through the Red Cross to help a coworker in distress:

Evelyn is proof that heroes come in all sizes:

Jeff is a healthcare worker and an everyday citizen who stepped up in someone else’s time of need:

Red Cross volunteer Jennifer was out getting a bite to eat and noticed a man choking:

Twinsburg Fire and Police, along with the dispatch team, honored for the team effort to save a baby from a home fire:

30 Years of Acts of Courage in Greater Akron and the Mahoning Valley: