We’ve got a couple of ideas about how all of you can be heroes. And, you don’t have to be particularly brave or heroic. All you have to do is open up your billfold a bit and give to a couple of worthy causes.

To become a “hero” for the Southern Prairie Chapter of the American Red Cross in Ottumwa, plan to join the “Hero Campaign” in March — Red Cross month.

Chapter members plan to team up with other organizations in an effort to raise $10,000.

Chapter officials said that they’ve been very busy the past three years helping out victims of loss such as house fires. It’s the first time the chapter will join the national hero campaign to raise funds.

In the chapter’s last fiscal year, the Red Cross helped out victims of more than 60 house fires, flood victims and residents hit hard by ice storms.

Many southern Iowans needed help, and the chapter used over $37,000 in funds to provide aid in the seven counties served by Southern Prairie.

Individuals, organizations, businesses and churches can be a “hero” by raising $500 next month.

A pledge of $500 buys 99 blankets, 18 cots, and provides 28 families with cleanup kits and other necessities.

Smaller donations can be dropped into special collection jugs placed around town.

You can also contact the chapter at 408 E. Main St. in Ottumwa; phone (641) 682-4571; online at www.southernprairie.redcross.org.

Look for more information as the campaign kicks off next month.

And, while you’re in a giving mood, don’t forget that the Heartland Humane Society needs donations of pet food, materials and cash to keep operating.

More and more people are dropping off unwanted cats and dogs at the shelter which is running out of room and supplies.

The Courier has been promoting helping out the shelter by offering residents to drop off dry dog food, puppy food, cat litter, paper towels and 39-gallon black garbage bags to our building at 213 E. Second St.