Nominate a Changemaker for the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award

On Nov 17, 2023

Nominations will open on January 1 for the 2024 Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award. Established by the late Russell Berrie and hosted by Ramapo College of New Jersey, the awards honor New Jersey residents whose outstanding community service and heroic acts have made a substantial impact on the lives of others.

With more than 400 honorees since the inception of the award in 1997, more than $4.1 million in cash awards have been presented to recognize the personal sacrifices and commitments individuals have made to serve others. Nominees typically include community leaders, affinity groups, ethnic and religious organizations, nonprofit leaders, and volunteers, among many others. Their work promotes community service, volunteerism, social justice, community life, environmental issues, and a range of advocacy topics.

Ten outstanding changemakers will be honored at the 28^th Anniversary Award Ceremony on May 10, 2024. There will be one top award of $50,000, two $25,000 awards, and up to seven $7,500 awards.

“My father passionately believed that one person’s actions to better the lives of others could inspire people to take similar action,” said Scott Berrie, vice president of the Board of Trustees of The Russell Berrie Foundation, the Teaneck-based philanthropy that carries out Russ Berrie’s legacy and charitable giving vision by recognizing New Jerseyans who are creating positive change in their communities. “We have been truly blessed to commemorate his vision and spirit by celebrating more than 400 incredible individuals, representing every county in New Jersey. Their selflessness, resourcefulness, and the diversity of their backgrounds and endeavors have improved the lives of countless people in need throughout the state.”

Nominations can be submitted through February 9, 2024 at RussBerrieMakingADifferenceAward.org.

For more information, visit RussBerrieMakingADifferenceAward.org.

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