Nominee Finalists

Donna is a RN who worked at ECMC for many years and now volunteers in a clinic at Friends of Night People which gives care to the poor and undomiciled and provides a clinical experience for UB medical students. Donna has no desire to keep any prize, should she win. Her goal is to donate any prize to a nonprofit organization.

It is my extreme pleasure and honor to nominate my brother Todd Johnston. Todd proudly served in the United States Air Force and worked at the VA Hospital until his service connected injuries forced him to retire early. Todd has had three back surgeries with fusion and a cage, a left knee replacement and surgery on his right knee. Todd struggles with pain every day that will never go away with any surgery and yet manages to get through with a smile. Todd is loving husband to his beautiful wife Heather and very proud father of his two children Caitlyn and Tyler. Todd always puts his family and friends first. Whenever he finds out someone is in need of help, Todd is the first one to help. He had a DJ service that helped earn some income for his family but due to his injuries had to stop most of his jobs due to the weight of the equipment. But won’t let it stop him from donating his time and what little he has to give. I strongly believe my brother is deserving of this.

Some people talk about service, and others just serve. I would like to nominate Buffalo Police Officer, Amy Veteran, Sergeant Jeremias Robles. After honorably serving 8 years as a Combat Medic, he returned home and continued to protect and serve as a police officer. What I admire most Jeremias is not just his courage, but his commitment to doing the right thing. He’s faced the chaos of war and the challenges of the streets with the same calm, steady presence that makes you feel safe just by standing beside him. Jeremias is the kind of person who runs toward trouble to keep others safe. Who carries the weight of service with quiet dignity. What makes this story even more special is that I once had the privilege of being his teacher. I watched him grow into the kind of young person you just knew would make a difference. But somewhere along the way, the roles quietly reversed because now he me teaches about courage, loyalty, and strength.

I’m nominating my wife, Jessica Miller, a devoted police officer, caregiver, and everyday hero. Jessica has spent her life protecting and uplifting others—both in uniform and out. Her dedication to service is unmatched, whether she’s responding to emergencies, mentoring youth, or checking in on elderly veterans in our community who rely on her kindness and consistency. She often goes out of her way on her own time to make sure they’re cared for and never forgotten. At home, Jessica is the heart of our family—balancing the demands of her job with endless love and strength. A new car would help her continue this important work and support our family’s busy life. She never seeks recognition, but her impact is felt by everyone she meets. Jessica is selfless, strong, and exactly the kind of person this honor was meant for.

Josh is the most selfless person I know. He dedicates himself to the community serving in almost every position in the fire line and company. He is always there anytime anyone needs him without question or hesitation. He is always the person that other people reach out to because they know he will always show up. He always puts his needs behind everyone else’s. For example he really needs a new truck but has put that need aside again and again to provide for his families needs. All first responders are something special but Josh shines just a bit brighter without ever seeking praise or recognition.