Geneva Hayden is a hero because of the way she volunteers to help children in her hometown of Syracuse, N.Y.

Geneva's volunteer work with children began in her living room in 1994. She compiled books and opened her home up to neighborhood children as a place for them to come and learn how to read. By 1996, her living room was known as “Mrs. Hayden's Library,” and was attracting kids from all over town.

The 62-year-old Geneva has galvanized her neighborhood in other projects. She has founded "Communities United to Rebuild Neighborhoods," an effort that began in 1996 with a neighborhood clean-up project. That project ultimately led to a community garden, which is still a source of joyful flowers and produce.

Today, Geneva she coordinates volunteers who assist with children's programs at a local school. She teaches computers, and children successfully completing her new computer training program can take a computer home. Support for these programs is provided by her community, foundations, businesses and local higher education institutions.

Read More Hero Stories >