Denny's Launches Nationwide Search for Unsung Heroes
News related to:Denny's · 2 min read
SPARTANBURG, S.C., Sept. 16, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Denny's, the iconic American diner chain, has launched a nationwide search for unsung heroes who make a difference in their communities. The company is inviting nominations for its "Denny's Heroes: A Grand Slam Thank You" campaign, which aims to recognize and celebrate individuals who consistently show up to help others.
According to Chris Bode, the president and CEO of Denny's, the initiative is rooted in the brand's core values.
The campaign seeks to honor a wide range of individuals, including educators, caregivers, first responders, coaches, veterans, volunteers, and community supporters. The company emphasizes that anyone who is always the first to step forward when something needs to be done is eligible for nomination.
Denny's will select 30 heroes to receive a "Grand Slam Thank You," a Denny's-catered hometown celebration for up to 50 guests hosted by a local franchise owner. These celebrations will serve as a way to bring communities together and celebrate the people who make those hometowns stronger.
The initiative also looks ahead to an important milestone for Denny's. In May 2027, the company will mark 50 years since the Grand Slam was first added to the menu in several Atlanta, Georgia, restaurants in celebration of baseball legend Hank Aaron. As that anniversary approaches, Denny's Heroes: A Grand Slam Thank You carries the spirit of an iconic meal created to honor a hometown hero forward by recognizing a new generation of people making a difference in communities across the country.
Fasika Melaku, the chief people, enterprise communications, and social impact officer of Denny's, explained the significance of the campaign. "The people we hope to honor will never call themselves heroes. They are too busy making sure someone is fed, safe, seen, or given another chance," Melaku said.
Nominations for Denny's Heroes: A Grand Slam Thank You are now open and will close on October 30. Interested individuals can submit nominations through the Denny's Heroes website, dennysheroes.com.
Denny's has been welcoming guests to its booths for over 70 years, and its commitment to supporting local communities is a cornerstone of the brand. Through initiatives like this, the company continues to reinforce its values and connect with the communities it serves.