Past Honorees

Learn more about past Honorees of the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award and the impact they are having in communities around New Jersey. All of them are shining examples of individuals who saw a need, an injustice, an inequity, or a problem to solve . . . and took action.

Want to find who’s doing great work in your community? Or addressing an issue you care about? Search the directory and use the map to locate Honorees near you.

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Search by name or keyword or click on the filters to find Honorees by year, focus area, or location.

Maud Dahme

Flemington
2024
Social Justice & Inclusion

Riccardo Dale

Beverly
2024
Youth Mentoring & Education

Phyllis DiNardi

Ocean
2024
Youth Mentoring & Education

Shirley Green

Whitesboro
2024
Arts & Culture

Ron Hine

Hoboken
2024
Environment

Mark Leschinsky

Mahwah
2024
Youth Mentoring & Education

Ruth Perez

Camden
2024
Social Justice & Inclusion

Kimberly Sleeman

Millburn
2024
Homeless Support

Ralph Stowe

Sayreville
2024
Health (Physical & Mental)

Kristy Whilden

Millville
2024
Programs for Differently Abled Individuals

Nadine Wright-Arbubakrr

East Orange
2024
Programs for Differently Abled Individuals

Norma Bowe

Highland Park
2023
Homeless Support