2024 Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award
Congratulations to the 2024 Honorees
We thank everyone who nominated someone for this prestigious award that recognizes changemakers who are creating positive impact in their New Jersey communities. Watch the video presentation featuring the 12 inspiring Honorees who were celebrated at our 28th anniversary award ceremony at Ramapo College.
Our 2024 Making a Difference Honorees
12 inspiring Honorees were celebrated at our 28th anniversary award ceremony at Ramapo College.
Making a Difference
Past Honorees
From the Blog
The Honoree Who’s Creating New Pathways for Children with Autism
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.
Meet Fraidy Reiss – Changing the Destiny of Young Women in Forced Marriages
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.
Meet Quadeer Porter: Improving the Lives of Newark’s Young Men
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.
Recent Press & Media
