Whelen opens nominations for 2026 Everyday Champion

By AI, Created 11:25 AM UTC, May 20, 2026, /AGP/ – Whelen Engineering has opened nominations for its 2026 Everyday Champion program, which recognizes people who show exceptional bravery and service in their communities. The winner will receive a trip to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, a ceremony in Charlotte and a donation to a charity of their choice.

Why it matters: - The Everyday Champion program spotlights people whose actions directly support public safety and community well-being. - The 2026 honoree will get national recognition, a Charlotte ceremony and a charitable donation in their name. - The program also draws attention to first responders and civilians whose actions can save lives.

What happened: - Whelen Engineering opened nominations for its 2026 Everyday Champion program on May 1, 2026. - Nominations run through August 14, 2026. - Individuals can submit a nomination at Whelen’s Everyday Champion page. - Whelen Engineering said the program honors people who show exceptional bravery, selflessness and dedication to making their communities safer.

The details: - The annual program recognizes people who go above and beyond through a single act of heroism or a long-term commitment to serving others. - Past honorees have included law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedicine teams and civilians. - Geoff Marsh, CEO of Whelen Engineering, said the program is meant to recognize people who step up when it matters most. - The selected 2026 Everyday Champion will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina. - The winner will be honored during a special ceremony and inducted into the Whelen Hall of Champions. - Whelen will also make a donation in the winner’s name to a charity of the honoree’s choice. - In 2025, Whelen recognized Jen Elleraas as its Everyday Champion. - Whelen said Elleraas was honored for her commitment to serving others and making an impact in her community. - Stories about Elleraas and past honorees are available on Whelen’s YouTube channel. - Whelen is encouraging individuals, departments and organizations nationwide to submit nominations and share the program with their networks. - More information is available at the company’s announcement.

Between the lines: - The program gives Whelen a public-facing way to connect its emergency warning and lighting business with the first responder community it serves. - By including civilians alongside public safety professionals, Whelen broadens the pool of nominees and the program’s reach. - The charitable donation and Hall of Fame trip add a recognition component that extends beyond a standard award.

What’s next: - Whelen will review nominations submitted before the August 14 deadline. - The company will announce the 2026 Everyday Champion after the nomination period closes. - Whelen is likely to continue promoting the program through its network and social channels to encourage submissions.

The bottom line: - Whelen is using the Everyday Champion program to celebrate community service while building visibility around first responders and everyday acts of heroism.