Automakers have been doing their bit to help the frontline workers who have so bravely put their lives on the line during the pandemic. Mazda North American Operations enacted its Essential Car Care program, providing free oil changes and car cleaning to healthcare workers. Now, the Japanese automaker wants to give back to these brave individuals yet again with another powerful gesture.

In what can only be described as a tough year for most individuals, pressing the pause button on life is especially difficult. But with the new Mazda Heroes: Honoring The Human Spirit program, 50 deserving heroes will find it easier to relax behind the wheel of a brand-new 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata 100th Anniversary Special Edition.

"This year marks Mazda's 100th Anniversary. We had hoped this time would be filled with moments of celebration and appreciation for our fans, employees, and partners. But given the many tragic events of 2020, we decided to express, in another way, our brand's unique heritage of trying to make things better," MNAO President Jeff Guyton said.

"In April, we launched our Essential Car Care Program to give free oil changes and car cleaning to healthcare workers across the US. Throughout this initiative, we heard how grateful our dealers and employees were to be in service to those selflessly giving back every day. This inspired us to develop the Mazda Heroes program, which will honor individuals supporting communities and share their stories in a moment when people desire inspiration in their lives."

Mazda says the 50 heroes selected to receive a 100th Anniversary Miata include medical workers on the front line, teachers adapting to distance learning, and community members sourcing PPE for others. All 50 individuals have demonstrated selfless acts, creative approaches, and contributions to their communities. Mazda will announce the honorees on December 2, 2020.

Those 50 individuals will receive a rare sports car, with as-yet unconfirmed production numbers. The Miata Anniversary Special Edition comes in Snowflake White Pearl Mica paint with red styling accents and a matching red interior. "100 Years 1920 - 2020" badges grace the exterior and cabin, letting people know it is a special edition.