The DeSoto Tribune presents
Meet local residents making a difference.
The DeSoto Tribune is recognizing the neighbors whose service, leadership and compassion make the Best Southwest stronger. Their work may happen in a classroom, a business, a neighborhood, a place of worship or wherever people step forward to help others.
A new local feature
Every community has a story. People are at the center of it.
Community Hero is an ongoing DeSoto Tribune profile series celebrating residents who improve life for the people around them. We are looking beyond job titles and public recognition to find the everyday leaders whose actions deserve to be known.
Nominees should live, work, study, volunteer or serve in the Best Southwest area. A person does not need an award, a large organization or a public platform to be considered. What matters is a meaningful and verifiable contribution to the community.
- DeSoto
- Cedar Hill
- Duncanville
- Lancaster
- Best Southwest
Who can be featured
People whose actions create a real local impact.
Service
Volunteers, nonprofit leaders, veterans, first responders and neighbors who consistently answer a community need.
Education and Youth
Teachers, students, coaches, mentors and advocates creating opportunities for young people.
Local Leadership
Residents, faith leaders and organizers who bring people together and help neighborhoods move forward.
Business With Purpose
Entrepreneurs and employees who use their work, time or resources to strengthen the community.
Courage and Compassion
People who have responded to hardship, helped someone in need or inspired others through their actions.
Arts and Culture
Artists, performers, historians and cultural advocates preserving local stories and creating connections.
How it works
Help us find the next Community Hero.
Choose a nominee
Think of someone with a specific record of service, leadership, generosity or positive local impact.
Share the story
Use our Pitch a Story form and explain what the person did, who benefited and why the story matters now.
Tribune review
Our editorial team will review the information, verify key details and contact selected nominees or nominators.
The nominee’s full name, city, contact information if available, your connection to the nominee and two or three specific examples of the difference that person has made. Use “Community Hero Nomination” as the subject.
Editorial policy: There is no fee to nominate or be selected as a Community Hero. Nominations do not guarantee publication. All selections and coverage decisions are made independently by The DeSoto Tribune based on news value, community impact, available information and editorial judgment.
Frequently asked questions
Before you nominate someone
Can I nominate myself?
Yes. Self-nominations are welcome, but the submission should focus on measurable community impact and include people or organizations that can help verify the information.
Does the nominee have to live in DeSoto?
No. Nominees may live, work, study, volunteer or serve in DeSoto, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, Lancaster or the broader Best Southwest area.
Is there a cost to be featured?
No. Community Hero is an editorial feature. Recognition cannot be purchased, and advertising relationships do not determine who is selected.
What makes a strong nomination?
Specific examples are more helpful than general praise. Explain what the nominee did, when and where it happened, who benefited and how the work improved the community.
What happens after I submit?
The Tribune may contact you for more information. If a nominee is selected, the newsroom may request an interview, photograph and permission to publish relevant details.