Two of New Jersey's most prestigious recognition platforms formally announced their strategic partnership today at the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Awards (MADA) ceremony held at Ramapo College. With a common goal of elevating public service in New Jersey, Multiplying Good and The Russell Berrie Foundation will collaborate over the next three years to bring together the honoree and nominee networks from both the Jefferson Awards and the Making a Difference Awards. This partnership will better support New Jersey's civic leaders and offer new opportunities for connection and skill development, including in-person events and virtual resources.
"These individuals, whether honored with a Jefferson Award or a Making a Difference Award, are not seeking recognition. They do extraordinary acts of service simply because they want to make life better for others. And we're excited about being able to help them do that more easily and in community with each other to build a Megaforce for Good," said Multiplying Good CEO, Benita Fitzgerald Mosley.
Established by the late Russell Berrie in 1997, funded by The Russell Berrie Foundation, and hosted and managed by Ramapo College of New Jersey, the Making a Difference Awards has awarded more than $4.2M to 430 New Jersey residents whose outstanding community service and visionary leadership has made a substantial impact on the lives of others.
"We see enormous potential in bringing these two communities together to connect and learn," said Russell Berrie Foundation CEO Dr. Idana Goldberg. "We're thrilled to enter into this collaboration with Multiplying Good and anticipate that its expansive resources and educational opportunities will position MADA honorees to bring the impact of their work to new heights."
You can watch a recording of the 2024 Russ Berrie Making a Difference Awards below:
