You may not spot a shimmering cape or a spandex-clad sidekick, but the men and women spotlighted as CNN Heroes perform daring feats every day. From an Iraq war widow to a chef who feeds “motel kids,” these individuals work tirelessly to improve the lives of others.

Celebrating its fifth year, CNN Heroes shines a spotlight on “everyday people changing the world.”

Twenty-one year old Taryn Davis lost her husband, Michael, after he was killed by roadside bombs while serving in Iraq. After feeling alone for so long, she started to visit other military widows and later made a documentary, The American Widow Project, and then started a nonprofit by the same name. Taryn’s organization has reached out to more than 900 military widows. Her website offers 24/7 support.

You can find out more about Taryn and the other extraordinary CNN Heroes finalists here. Read these inspiring stories and vote for your CNN Hero of 2011. Each of the ten finalists receives a $50,000 grant, and one finalist will be awarded Hero of the Year, rewarded with an additional $250,000.  

You know a Superhero? Nominations for 2012 are now open.