The search for the next CNN Hero of the Year is just beginning. Five outstanding fellows have been selected for their commitment to empowering their communities and addressing pressing social challenges. This year’s Top 5 CNN Heroes are Debra Des Vignes, Quilen Blackwell, Tim Woodward, Kerith Carman, and Dan Daniels. That impact has been profound on each of these heroes’ fields. From therapeutic equine programs for incarcerated men and women to fighting hunger and rescuing abused and neglected animals, they do it all.
Debra Des Vignes facilitates a powerful, 12-week creative writing program for incarcerated youth. This powerful program provides a safe space for them to tell their stories, heal trauma and cultivate a culture of community. Her program has grown to reach eight correctional institutions in Indiana, Alabama, and Illinois, serving over 250 participants. Des Vignes speaks with enthusiasm about her work and takes time to reflect on what success looks like.
“Learning their stories and where they come from puts it all into perspective. It’s given my life meaning, purpose.” – Debra Des Vignes
People like Quilen Blackwell are turning the tides with work like that of his organization, Southside Blooms. Since their start in 2020, the group has rescued more than 270,000 meals! This common sense effort has made great progress at reducing hunger and redirecting food from landfills. Blackwell reminds listeners what it’s like to have a community of support when you’re going through dark times.
“This is about creating real and tangible opportunity in a place that desperately needs it. Our young people are blossoming and blooming every single day.” – Quilen Blackwell
Animal welfare has always been the driving force behind Tim Woodward’s cause. He co-founded Animal Rescue Corps in 2011. Since then, he has made the difference between life and death for more than 10,000 animals, preventing them from unnecessary euthanasia. Woodward’s commitment to animal rescue comes from an overflowing compassionate heart with a love for all living beings.
“My hope for the animals is that they have the best life possible and that they forget all about where they came from.” – Tim Woodward
Kerith Carman with a certified therapy dog Kerith Carman, M. They provide powerful, often life-saving stress relief to first responders. Since 2021, they have helped provide over 150,000 first responders in all 46 states, transporting much-needed comfort in high-stress situations. Professionally, Carman is thankful for the opportunity to affect positive change in so many lives.
“We have helped so many people. I’m grateful to Kerith for showing me the way.” – Heidi Carman
All of the Top 5 CNN Heroes will be awarded a grant. In addition to this cash award, they will receive ongoing organizational and capacity-building support from The Elevate Prize Foundation. Plus, CNN Hero of the Year receives an additional $100,000 to continue their motivating efforts.
The impact of these individuals truly showcases that the power of compassion and dedication to serving your community goes a long way! Their impact goes far beyond their direct work, inspiring others to get to work on the kind of meaningful projects that can address our society’s most critical challenges. In a time when our world is still grappling with crisis after crisis, these heroes personify the spirit of resilience and hope.
