Jay Deitcher
For 30 years, the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Awards recognized New Jersey’s unsung heroes: people who saw a need in their communities and chose to act. Since the program began, the Russell Berrie Foundation has invested more than $4.7 million in 485 changemakers whose work has fed families, supported people with disabilities, expanded educational opportunities and strengthened communities across New Jersey and beyond.
The final awards looked deliberately toward the future. A new Gen Z category honored young leaders already building programs, organizing their peers and advocating for change. A separate Ripple Awards category invited past honorees to nominate a new generation of problem solvers. Together, these additions reflected Russell Berrie’s belief in betting on people and affirmed that no one needs to wait for permission to make a difference.
eJewishPhilanthropy’s article about the 30th and final awards shares the stories of honorees and explores the legacy of a program rooted in justice, compassion, responsibility and care for others. Although the awards have concluded, their impact continues through the people and organizations they helped strengthen. As the Russell Berrie Foundation moves toward its planned sunset in 2033, these continuing ripples represent the kind of “sunrise” we hope to leave behind.