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Dominique Lee

BRICK Academy

"In my line of work I get joy by seeing excitement in a child's eyes when they get a math problem or a joyful shout from a parent when their child finally achieves success on their report - other than the experiences from parents and children, I rarely experience joy - thus, winning this award was very humbling, as it was a sign that the work I do everyday with restoring hope for thousands of people means something to the community at-large."
Linda Gillick

Ocean of Love

"I never expected or thought doing what was necessary would earn me the honor of the Russ Berrie Award. This award showed me that when you believe in something and you try to safeguard the life of your community, others are watching and paying attention."
Chip Paillex

America’s Grow-a-Row

"Being associated with one of the most distinguished service awards in New Jersey has permanently changed the scope and trajectory of America’s Grow-a-Row in ways that have helped thousands of New Jersey residents faced with hunger and food insecurity."
Eric Fuchs-Stengel

MEVO

"The award has and continues to inspire me to work every single day to create the world I would like to live in. It shows me that down deep in our inner humanity we all want to be happy and are willing to give love to our neighbors and friends."
Jack Fanous

G.I. Go Fund
Joyce Jenkins

Paul M. McGuire Family Health Center
Jennifer Papa

City Green

"From preschoolers to high school students to senior citizens, City Green supports educational farm and garden programming that forges a connection between people, food and nature because we believe green, natural spaces and farm to table food should be available to everyone. Thank you so much for including us in the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award!"

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

The Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award is administered by Ramapo College of New Jersey

Celebrating New Jersey’s “Unsung Heroes” for 22 years

Purpose

The Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award for uncommon and unsung local New Jersey heroes funds up to three major awards of $50,000, $35,000 and $25,000 and up to eight awards of $5,000. We recognize unusual heroism and community service in our state and those who have made a significant difference to the well-being of society.

Each year, honorees are nominated from all over the state of New Jersey by people who know their work first-hand. An Advisory Board of distinguished New Jersey business and nonprofit leaders evaluates the nominations and presents awards at Ramapo College. Learn more about the eleven outstanding individuals who were honored at the 22nd anniversary ceremony on Friday, May 4, 2018 here.

The committee considers the following criteria:

What is the scale of the accomplishment? Is it unique?
Does the work inspire others?
Is the person paid or a volunteer? If paid, is the accomplishment truly above and beyond?
How enduring is the heroism or sacrifice?
If a single act, was there a high degree of risk and danger?
How many people were impacted or influenced?
Would the award make a significant difference in their lives?
Was the work carried out in New Jersey?

For additional information on the Russ Berrie Making A Difference Awards you can email mlee8@ramapo.edu.

Russ Berrie Making A Difference Awards Brochure (PDF)

Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award

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Celebrating New Jersey’s “Unsung Heroes” for 22 years

Purpose