Media & Press

Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award Press Media Press
For media inquiries about the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award or to reach honorees for interviews, please contact:

Meredith Lee

Program Director

Quick Facts

The Making a Difference Award was established in 1997 by the late Russell Berrie, a New Jersey-based entrepreneur and CEO of Russ Berrie & Company.
Established in 199701
The Award honors individuals who make New Jersey a better place — through service to others, to their communities, or by an act of extraordinary heroism.
Making NJ Better02
The Award program is supported by the Russell Berrie Foundation and managed by Ramapo College of New Jersey.
Support03
A total of 419 individuals have been recognized since 1997.
419 Honorees04
More than $4.1 million has been awarded to New Jersey residents since 1997.
Over $4.1 Million05
Honorees are located in every county in New Jersey.
Statewide06
Honorees range in age from nine years old to ninety years old.
From 9- 90 Years Old07
In the News

Recent Media Coverage

MONTH YYYY

Anti-Violence Coalition of Hudson County to receive $2 million in a grant to allow the organization to respond to non-emergency mental health crisis calls.

Pamela Johnson, founder of the Anti-Violence Coalition of Hudson County
MONTH YYYY

Parker Family Health Center Celebrates Expansion with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

TAP into Red Bank
PFHC Founder Dr. Gene Cheslock – The center provides free medical care to uninsured and underinsured residents of Monmouth County.
October 2924

My Brother’s Keeper Newark Launches New Video Series to Strengthen Literacy by Featuring Newark Authors Who are Men of Color

Insider NJ
Robert Clark, Founder & CEO, Newark Opportunity Youth Network – video series aimed at strengthening literacy across the community, featuring Newark authors who are men of color.
Load More

Press Releases