In observance of World Autism Month, we feature Nadine Wright-Arbubakrr of East Orange, a Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award Honoree who created Nassan’s Place, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides accessible, affordable educational and recreational programs and other support services for children and families affected by autism in and around New Jersey’s inner-city communities.
Fraidy Reiss, founder of the nonprofit organization Unchained At Last, is working to end forced and child marriage and create laws prohibiting it throughout the entire U.S.
Quadeer Porter established Brothers Building a Better Nation (BBABN) to help Newark-area men at risk for self-harm by eliminating the systemic barriers to mental health services. BBABN clients get access to a therapist of color and resources to alleviate housing, addiction and other social issues, especially for those who were formerly incarcerated.
Since 1997, 67 people from South Jersey counties have received the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award. Erik Estrada of the Camden County-based Community Foundation of South Jersey serves on the MADA advisory board and shares insights about changemakers and their impact in South Jersey.
Russ Berrie’s deep appreciation and empathy for the unsung heroes among us in NJ who work tirelessly to improve lives, and his passion for philanthropy, motivated the launch of the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Awards.
Riccardo Dale, a 2024 Russ Berrie honoree, founded Free All Minds Academy (F.A.M.) to support at-risk youth from 8th grade to adulthood, providing weekly mentoring and guidance.
