2016 Idaho Hometown Heroes announced

The JRM Foundation for Humanity has announced its 2016 Idaho Hometown Heroes.

The family foundation was established in 2011 and follows a philanthropic mission established by Doctors Naeem and Fahim Rahim of Pocatello. It pays tribute to those who show unique characteristics, achievements and committment to creating better, safer communities across the state of Idaho.

According to a foundation news release, this year’s medalists are:

Zeze Rwasama, who lives in Twin Falls, is originally from Congo. He is the director at the College of Southern Idaho’s Refugee program working to educate, integrate and build bridges between refugees and their new communities.

Sonya Rosario is a filmmaker from Meridian and is the Founder and Executive Director of Women of Color Alliance. Her work and films help heal native communities.

Mike Kralicek a former Coeur d’Alene police officer and Air Force Veteran is an inspiration to other public servants to be better prepared for overcoming adversity and has been instrumental in passing a Senate Bill to help law enforcement families in times of crisis.

Jeni Griffin of Idaho Falls has spent over ten years promoting suicide prevention in Idaho and is the Executive Director of SPAN, Suicide Prevention Action Network of Idaho.

Doug Nelson is an attorney from Idaho Falls who has been a fundraising campaign chair and leader as well as an advocate for children’s activity programs, mentoring disadvantaged single-mothers and multiple charitable organizations for over three decades.

Holly Kartchner is an outstanding teacher, coach and mentor from Blackfoot and a recipient of the American Civic Education Teacher Award. She has dedicated and committed her efforts to education in Southeastern Idaho leading her students to reach national championships.

Wiley Petersen grew up in Fort Hall and is a professional bull rider, coach, motivational speaker and mentor who gives back to his Native American community hoping to bridge the gaps created in society and helping further the progress of the Native American people.

Tyvan Schmitt of Pocatello will receive his medal as a posthumous award for his bravery and courage as he attempted to prevent a large catastrophe. He served time in the Navy and was a devoted community member who helped the homeless, the schools and neighbors.

Dr. Helen Cathleen Tarp is a resident of Pocatello and a Spanish Professor and founding Program Director of the Spanish for Health Professions major at Idaho State University, which is the only major of its kind in the country.

Linda Scott is a native of Pocatello, who as a community member and volunteer, has committed her time, energy, resources and compassion for helping others in need.

The JRM Foundation will present its 6th annual Idaho’s Hometown Hero Ceremony and Gala at the Stephens Performing Arts Center at Idaho State University on Saturday, September 17.

The ceremony will feature 2016 Olympic Medalist and U.S. World Champion Fencer Miles Chamley-Watson.

You can find more information about the event here