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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
March 2024
Melissa McBride founded Montclair-based educational organization Jazz House Kids
March 2024
Al-Tariq Best, founder and leader of the HUBB ATC,
March 2024
Unchained at Last founder Fraidy Reiss – child marriage exists in the US and the minimum age to marry varies from state to state
Press Releases
- 2024 Nominations Open Press Release
- Russ Berrie Making A Difference Award Announces Honorees For The 27th Annual Ceremony
- Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award Announces 2022 Honorees
- Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award Announces 2021 Honorees
- Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award Celebrates Honorees at 23rd Annual Ceremony at Ramapo College