Calling all heroes! Nominations are now open for Alaska Communications third annual "Summer of Heroes" partnership program with Boys & Girls Club-Alaska. 

In recognition of local youth who make a difference in Alaska communities, the company will select and award five young Alaskan heroes with $1,500 scholarships and a trip to the Alaska State Fair. Alaskans from all over the state are encouraged to nominate a child. Special events and celebrations leading up to the State Fair will also celebrate these heroic youths and the program.

Any Alaska youth (ages 6-18) who meets the following criteria can

self-nominate or be nominated by someone he or she knows.

Local heroes are defined as someone who has:

• Raised significant funds for a cause
• Saved a person's life
• Made a difference in school through education or sports
• Made a significant contribution to his or her community.

There are lots of ways to spend your summer vacation. Youth Service America has some positive activities to make your summer the best one yet!

1. Say "Thank You!"

Write thank you letters to people who inspired you or helped you through your school year. A small thank you letter can really make a difference.

2. Get some green!

YSA Grants offer the cash you need to run a great community action project. Youth, teachers and school groups are eligible to apply.  Check out what people are saying about service-learning, and check back later this summer for more YSA Grant opportunities!

3. Ditch your desk!

Although many students graduate from school in May, not all children are as privileged. Help children get a positive start in elementary school. Give them the boost to succeed. Collect books and school supplies to donate to local schools and library.  

4. Use your noggin!

Proud of your academics? You should be! Help others feel proud of education by finding tutoring and mentoring opportunities in your area. Older kids can play an important role in helping younger kids learn.  

5. Fill some bellies!

Visit your local food bank and offer a few hours of service. Give others the gift of groceries. Or sign up to be a part of Share Our Strength's No Kid Hungry campaign.

6. Clean it up!

It's nearly summer, ensure that the 'great outdoors' is kept clean for us all. Find time to pick up trash at the beach, park, or around your neighborhood. Organize groups of three of four people (it's safer and way more fun) and throw on a pair of gloves. See who collects the most trash by the end of the day!

7. Take it international!

Plan on vacationing this summer? Take the time to get to know the area you'll be visiting. What are their needs and issues, and what can tourists do to help? Make sure you leave your vacation spot a little better, safer, cleaner than you found it!

8. Share Your Ideas!

Inspire others and start a blog. Update it weekly with your thoughts about life, education, and community service.

9. If you have lemons...

Make lemonade! Gather your friends together to raise funds for a cause you care about. Lemonade stands, car washes, and bake sales are all fun, easy and YUMMY ways to raise funds and awareness about issue areas.

10. Tutor Tots Near You!

Now that you are an official scholar, donate your time and help tutor children in reading, writing or math. Contact your local elementary schools and ask about summer volunteer tutoring programs. Search Volunteer Match, for tutoring opportunities. Check out United Way Alaska's new site BeTheChange907.org for volunteer opportunities in your area!