As the Making a Difference Award shifts to recognize Gen Z leaders in 2026, we look back at some Honorees whose work to improve communities and the lives of NJ residents began in their teens or college years.
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.
Trinity Jagdeo, a 2024 Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award honoree, is an advocate dedicated to increasing inclusion and representation for disabled children through her nonprofit organization, From We Can’t to We Can, based in Vineland, NJ.
Robt Martin Seda-Schreiber, founder and chief activist of the Bayard Rustin Center for Social Justice, commits his life’s work to addressing social justice for the LGBTQIA community, encompassing the intersectionality of marginalized individuals and families within the queer community.
Highlighting 6 Russ Berrie Honorees advancing women of all ages in NJ for Women’s History Month: Ann Wagner, Bridget Cutler, Emma & Quinn Joy, A’Dorian Murray-Thomas, and Tawanda Jones.
Meet Sandra Ramos, a fearless activist fighting to end domestic violence. She founded the first shelter for battered women in North America and has saved lives and created brighter futures for thousands.
Cape May has a rich history correlating to the black community. Emily Dempsey, a sixth-generation resident of Cape May and 2022 Russ Berrie Making a Difference Honoree, has played a huge role in researching, preserving, and promoting this history.
