MUMBAI: News broadcaster CNN has launched a global initiative to showcase CNN Heroes. These are ordinary people who accomplish extraordinary deeds in areas ranging from the environment to civil rights. Culminating in a year-end awards gala, the network will honor the most outstanding of viewer-submitted nominees from around the world. The "CNN Heroes" initiative is the first of its kind for the network.

CNN anchor Anderson Cooper, along with an array of notable co-hosts to be announced later this year, will present the winners of "The CNN Hero Awards" during a special live global broadcast on 6 December. The gala will include musical performances and documentary tributes to those being honored as well as to their accomplishments and continued work.

Walton said, "Our journalists come across these individuals every single day on the job, but they do not always get to tell these inspiring stories. With the help of our global audience, we turn the spotlight on those people who serve as an example of how a single person can make a difference."

From 1 May 2007 till September CNN's networks and services, including CNN, Headline News and CNN.com, will feature examples of "everyday heroes" and encourage viewers to submit and nominate people in their own communities whom they find deserving of a CNN Hero Award. CNN International and CNN en Español will begin airing the profiles in June. Nomination forms will be available online at www.CNN.com/Heroes. A blue-ribbon panel will select the winners.

Awards will be given in the following categories: "Defending the Planet," innovative efforts to preserve and protect the environment; "Fighting for Justice," advancing the cause of civil or equal rights; "Community Crusader," creating solutions to a local program or social issue; "Medical Marvel," dedication to the enhancement of human health; "Championing Children," commitment to the welfare of young people; and "Young Wonder," outstanding achievement by a person under the age of 18.