Tropical Financial Credit Union and Florida Panthers Launch 2026 Community Hero Search
Public encouraged to nominate people in the community making a positive impact.
February 5, 2026
Tropical Financial Credit Union
Based in Miramar, Florida, Tropical Financial Credit Union is a member-owned not-for-profit financial institution.
Tropical Financial Credit Union, the Official Credit Union of the Florida Panthers, is teaming up once again with the NHL’s champion hockey franchise to spotlight extraordinary individuals making a difference across South Florida and beyond.
. The 2026 Community Hero campaign invites the public to nominate inspiring community members whose selfless work is enhancing neighborhoods, helping others, and creating positive change.
Nominations are open now through March 6, 2026. The honored Community Hero will be celebrated in-person during the Florida Panthers home game against the Detroit Red Wings on April 15, 2026.
The Community Hero will receive a $2,500 cash award, and Tropical Financial will present an additional $500 donation to a charity of the winner’s choice.
“We’re proud to partner with the Florida Panthers to recognize the individuals who make a real impact where they live and work,” said Rick Shaw, CEO/President of Tropical Financial. “These are the stories that deserve to be celebrated—and we’re honored to help share them.”
Community Heroes might include volunteers, nonprofit founders, mentors, activists, caregivers, environmental stewards, educators, and others whose efforts have uplifted families, improved communities, or made life better for those around them.
Nominees must be 18 years of age or older and live in Florida. Nominees do not need to be a Tropical Financial member to be eligible.A panel of judges will evaluate submissions based on:
- Community impact: The depth and significance of the nominee’s contributions.
- Reach: How many people have benefited from the nominee’s work.
- Story: The uniqueness and inspiring qualities of the nominee’s journey.
The Florida Panthers and Tropical Financial are calling on Panthers fans, Tropical Financial members, and the general public to nominate standout citizens at https://www.tropicalfcu.com/communityhero before the March 6 deadline.