While it may be a star-studded affair, “CNN Heroes” reminds us everyday people can make meaningful and lasting change.

In today’s age of non-stop news broadcasting the most recent tragedy, the idea that you can make a difference is often received with cynism and mockery. But you can make a difference, and CNN’s tribute to everyday people who have made a difference reminds all of us of our potential.

Actor Ted Danson, rocker Lenny Kravitz, and funnyman Will Ferrell are among other top names in entertainment that will gather Dec. 9 to celebrate 10 everyday people whose good deeds make a difference around the world at this year’s “CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute” in New York City.

Talk show host Kelly Ripa will join CNN’s Anderson Cooper to host the show from the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, airing live Sunday, Dec. 9,  on CNN at 8 p.m. ET.

Each of the heroes will receive a $10,000 cash prize. One of the 10 will be named “CNN Hero of the Year,” and receive an additional $100,000 for his or her cause. (You can vote for your favorite here.)

This year’s top 10 CNN Heroes include a doctor fighting to break the cycle of violence, a woman who helps the injured walk again and a teacher who uses the power of writing to heal. The full list can be viewed here.

The program will also honor five young people who are working to improve their communities and the world. Young stars Elsie Fisher (Eighth Grade), Rohan Chand (Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle) and Darby Camp (“Big Little Lies”) will salute these CNN Heroes Young Wonders.

Grammy award-winning rock singer Lenny Kravitz will perform “Here to Love” from his album “Raise Vibration.”

Other presenters on the show will include actors Bryan Cranston of “Breaking Bad,” Danai Gurira of Black Panther, and Uzo Aduba of “Orange Is the New Black.”

Social media users are also encouraged to “like” CNN Heroes on Facebook, follow @CNNHeroes on Twitter and use the hashtag #CNNHeroes. Behind-the-scenes images can be viewed on the CNN Heroes Instagram account.

Subaru will match donations made to the designated nonprofit organization of each Top 10 CNN Hero, via CNNHeroes.com and crowdrise.com/cnnheroes, up to $50,000 per hero.

Now in its 12th year, the Peabody and Emmy Award-winning “CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute” has profiled more than 300 heroes and has received nearly 100,000 nominations from more than 100 countries.

In addition to the TV airing, it will also stream live for subscribers Sunday, Dec. 9, via CNNgo (at CNN.com/go and via CNNgo apps). The special will also be available the day after the broadcast premiere on demand via cable/satellite systems, CNNgo platforms and CNN mobile apps.