Mauch Chunk Trust Company has recognized 97 area residents as "Community Heroes" as part of its award program of the same name and is looking for 2017 nominees.

Since 2000, MCT has solicited peer nominations of those residents in the community who have "devoted substantial time to nonprofit community organizations that benefit or improve the quality of life."From the nominations, at least four "heroes" have been chosen each year by an independent selection committee. While the majority of the award recipients prefer to remain anonymous angels of the community, MCT feels strongly that their good and generous deeds should be made known to the communities they serve. Each "hero" is honored at a public banquet, and Mauch Chunk Trust Company presents each recipient with an inscribed award, and a $200 donation is made in their name to the charity of their choice.Mauch Chunk Trust Company President and CEO Patrick H. Reilly said, "Volunteers don't often get the recognition they deserve. We are proud to have the opportunity to honor these outstanding members of our community who selflessly donate their time and talents to help make our local community a better place to live and work."Selection criteria:• A person who is or has been active in nonprofit/community organizations that benefit or improve the quality of life in Carbon County or the Tamaqua area on a volunteer basis and who devote a substantial amount of their personal time to those activities (scouting, sports, charities, etc.) and has made a significant impact and contribution to their community.• Minimum age requirement: 25• No posthumous nominations• Prior winners are not eligible• Deadline for nominations is March 31The nomination form is available at

www.mauchchunktrust.com.