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.

Phyllis DiNardi

Ocean Township

Kristy Whilden

Elmer

Nadine Wright-Arbubakkr

East Orange

Riccardo Dale

Beverly

Trinity Jagdeo

Vineland

Ruth Perez

Camden

Kim Sleeman

Short Hills

Maud Dahme

Flemington

Lifetime Service Award

Established in
1997by Russell Berrie
A total of
430 NJ Honorees
Awarded over
$4.2M in cash awards since 1997
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Established in
1997
by Russell Berrie
A total of
430
NJ Honorees
Awarded over
$4.2M
in cash awards since 1997
About the

Making a Difference

Award
Established in 1997 by the late Russell Berrie, and managed and hosted by Ramapo College of New Jersey, the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award honors Garden State residents whose outstanding community service and heroic acts have made a substantial impact on the lives of others.

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.
There’s no greater importance in life than knowing you’ve helped a fellow human being.”
Russ Berrie, 1933-2002
Russell Berrie

From the Blog

In the News

Recent Press & Media

May 2024
Dr. Laura S. McKirdy president, Sound Start Babies, is largely responsible for founding this organization.
May 2024
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Julia Duane Quinlan, chief executive and co-founder of the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice in Newton.
April 2024
Kim Gaddy founded the South Ward Environmental Alliance, a local climate change advocacy group.