NOMINATE SOMEONE FOR RUSS BERRIE MAKING A DIFFERENCE AWARD

Nominations for the 2016 Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award honoring NJ heroes will be accepted through February 19, 2016. The award for uncommon and unsung heroes funds up to three major awards of $50,000, $35,000 and $25,000 and up to eight runner-up awards of $5,000. The award recognizes unusual heroism and community service in our state and those who have made a significant difference to the well-being of society.

Established in 1996 by the late Russell Berrie, founder of Russ Berrie and Company, Inc. and the Russell Berrie Foundation, and Ramapo College of New Jersey, the awards honor “unsung heroes” from throughout the state. Awards will be presented at a ceremony on May 6, 2016.

Last year, top awards went to: a resident of Newark who founded an organization that addresses the elements of poverty that stand in the way of young peoples’ education; a resident of Toms River who founded an organization that support families affected by cancer incidences in her area; and a gentleman from Cape May County who donates linens from bed and breakfasts in the area which has grown into a community-wide effort providing blankets, clothing, baby furniture and other items to veterans’ organizations, victims of domestic violence and church food pantries.

Nomination forms are available on the Internet http://www.ramapo.edu/berrie-awards/. The deadline for entries is February 19, 2016. Info: madaawards@ramapo.edu.

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