SHARON, Pa. – The Shenango Valley Chamber of Commerce has launched a new initiative that aims to highlight the work of first responders.

The chamber will kick off High 5 to Heroes with an award presentation and lunch Wednesday to honor McGonigle Ambulance Service in Hermitage.

Jim Bombeck, the chamber’s executive director, said he was already thinking about the role of first responders in the community when he learned of another effort to recognize them while attending a chamber professional conference. He also was inspired by his son, who was an emergency medical technician who shared with his father some of the situations they put themselves in.

“Thank God that people are willing to do that, because I certainly would not,” Bombeck said. “It’s great that we celebrate these folks.”

Monthly winners will be chosen via random drawing, according to a chamber newsletter. In addition to presenting the High 5 to Heroes award to the honoree, the chamber will buy lunch for the honoree’s day shift.

Honorees will include police officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians, Bombeck said.

Patrick Murphy, executive director of McGonigle Ambulance Service, said being named the first recipient of the award means a lot. First responders in general aren’t always recognized for their commitment and efforts, and EMTs in particular sometimes are the “forgotten link” in the first responder chain.

“Every day, we show up for people on what typically are some of the worst days of their lives,” he remarked. “Whether it’s an accident or a medical emergency or a family in crisis, the people here, they respond with skill and compassion and a calmness. I think the award reflects not just one of those moments, but all the times and all the important things that we do for the community.”

Capo Supply in Sharon is the award sponsor. Other sponsors associated with the program include UPMC Horizon, Sharon Regional Health System, Reinhardt’s Insurance, Mercer County Community Federal Credit Union, Envy Hair and Nail Salon and Mercer County Commissioners Ann Coleman and Bill Finley.

Capo Supply, an electric supply retailer, counts local fire and public works departments among its customers, said Ian Capoferri, owner and operator.

“We thought it would be a nice thing to do to show a little bit of appreciation,” he said. “A lot of times, people take our first responders for granted.”

Bombeck recalled hearing noises outside in his backyard about 10 p.m. a year ago. The noise stopped before he could call the police to check it out, but the incident reminded him that there are first responders available who would come and investigate.

“It could be someone who has bad intentions, and they put themselves in harm’s way for my family,” he said.