Summer vacation continues on, but the nomination period for the 2017 Summer of Heroes program, sponsored by Alaska Communication and Boys & Girls Clubs — Alaska, is nearing its end.

The program, which is in its seventh year, recognizes five young Alaskans who are making noteworthy contributions to their Alaska communities.

According to the Summer of Heroes website, examples of “heroes” could include efforts such as volunteering for a cause, considering others’ needs before their own or inspiring others to take action.

Nominations for a “hero” must be submitted online or at a Boys & Girls Club by 5 p.m. on July 17. Nominees may be any Alaska resident between the ages of 6 and 18 making a positive difference in his or her community, according the the Alaska Communications Summer of Heroes webpage.

Each recognized “hero” will receive a $1,500 scholarship and a trip to the Alaska State Fair for a special recognition ceremony.

“Supporting youth development and education throughout Alaska—and helping the future leaders of our state reach their goals—is something that is important to us at Alaska Communications,” said Anand Vadapalli, Alaska Communications president and CEO, in a press release. “We’re proud to be partnering with Boys & Girls Clubs – Alaska for the seventh year and we can’t wait to meet the 2017 heroes this summer.”

In the past, the Kenai Peninsula has been home to several “heroes.”

Last year, Robert Martin of Homer was recognized for his work with the Boy Scouts of America program.

In 2015, Marguerite Ruth Cox of Nikiski was chosen for her extensive volunteerism, driven by her unrelenting compassion for improving the lives of humans and animals.

Alaskans can nominate themselves or others online at https://www.alaskacommunications.com/About/Summer-of-Heroes.

Reach Kat Sorensen at kat.sorensen@peninsulaclarion.com.