Lower Mills-based Vargas & Vargas Insurance has issued a call for nominations for the 5th annual Boston’s Best Neighbor Award. The citywide contest is open to all Boston residents, according to award founder Carlos Vargas, president of Vargas & Vargas Insurance.

“The purpose of the annual Boston’s Best Neighbor Award is to honor an individual who has demonstrated special care, concern and volunteer hours to make their neighborhood a safer, more pleasant and more friendly community for all the residents,” said Vargas. “This individual may have made contributions to other neighborhoods, projects or citywide concerns.”

Nominations must reach the office of Vargas & Vargas Insurance Dorchester location by 5 p,m, on August 15. Please visit Boston’s Best Neighbor 2013 for nomination guidelines.

Both those that nominate and those nominated must be current Boston residents. This is a citywide award. The nomination must include an essay of 100 words or more. This isn't a voting competition but an award to the most deserving.

The 2013 winning nominee will receive $2,000 and a plaque and their story will be published in the local media. The individual who nominates the winner will receive a $500 check and $500 donated to the charity of their choice. One runner-up will also receive $500. The winners will presented with their plaque and winnings in a location close to their neighborhood in Boston, the runner up will also receive their award and winnings at this same location.

Vargas & Vargas Insurance Agency located in Dorchester and Stoughton, has been servicing the insurance needs of Massachusetts residents for over 20 years. Partners and brothers Carlos, Joseph and Mario Vargas operate a socially responsible business, giving back to the community through volunteerism, donations and sponsorships.