Transformational Giving

" …the term ‘transformation’ connotes huge change. It is change where the whole context shifts and people being to think and act differently….But not all transformation is about system change. I believe, in fact, that individual transformation is where it all begins, starting with a vision for change.” (1) - Peter Karoff

The Berrie Medical Science Pavilion, New York City

Russ Berrie took an entrepreneurial approach to his philanthropy, treating his grants as social investments. He sought out dynamic leaders with passion, energy and a sense of urgency to create and implement successful projects. In essence, he believed in investing in people. He was adept at identifying social entrepreneurs who had the same vision for change as himself and he was willing to give them whatever resources that would help them carry out the elements that were needed to advance their goals.

As a value investor, he emphasized research and analysis of any major philanthropic endeavor he was considering and stressed the need to measure and evaluate grants to determine whether the Foundation was really “making a difference”.

Russ set the bar high as to what he wanted to accomplish through his Foundation: ensuring the future of the Jewish people, finding a cure to diabetes, advancing humanism in medicine, fostering religious understanding and pluralism, recognizing individuals who have made a significant difference in the lives of others, elevating the profession of sales, and building a rich and vibrant arts community in New Jersey. And underlying these passions was his deep belief in humanity and the importance of touching the lives of ordinary people.

Russ Berrie giving out teddy bear for the “Bear Hugs for the Holidays” program in northern NJ

Russ Berrie was all about transformational change; in the way he approached philanthropy, in his keen ability to identify and partner with dynamic leaders, in what he valued and believed, and in the goals he sought to achieve.

The Foundation has been charged with carrying out these ambitious directives and institutionalizing them so that the legacy of Russ Berrie and his vision for change may be passed on to future generations.

• Click here for a list of the Foundation’s transformational initiatives and grantees

“Russ wanted the Russell Berrie Foundation to make a difference, to make his philanthropy count,” said Angelica Berrie, president of the Russell Berrie Foundation. “Giving is not just about writing a check. It is a relationship between those who have the means to touch people’s lives and the causes that inspire their generosity. In the process, we are transformed by acts of loving-kindness.”

1. Karoff, H.P., “Transformation Through Philanthropy – Theory, Fact and Fiction,” pg.1, October 2004.