For three decades, the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award has been the premier stage for New Jersey’s “unsung heroes.” Today, the Russell Berrie Foundation announced a historic shift for the program’s 30th year: in 2026, the awards will focus exclusively on the next generation of leaders.
The Foundation is calling on residents across the Garden State to nominate young changemakers, ages 16 to 24, who are driving social, environmental, or community-based progress. A total of 15 Gen Z leaders will be selected, each receiving a $5,000 cash award to recognize their leadership and amplify their impact.
This year’s youth-centric focus marks the first time in the award’s history that it has targeted a specific age demographic. Since its inception in 1997 by the late entrepreneur and philanthropist Russell Berrie, the program has distributed over $4.4 million to more than 450 honorees.
“My father believed deeply in recognizing those who serve others with purpose and heart,” Scott Berrie, vice president of The Russell Berrie Foundation, said. “He would be profoundly inspired by the vision, energy, and impact young people are bringing to communities across New Jersey today.”
How to nominate
The nomination window is brief, and the Foundation encourages teachers, mentors, and community members to identify candidates who may be working “without applause.”
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Deadline: Feb. 13, 2026
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Eligibility: New Jersey residents aged 16–24
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Submission: Online at RussBerrieMakingADifferenceAward.org
Finalists will be honored at a ceremony hosted by Ramapo College of New Jersey, which has administered the program since its founding. “Every day, we see Gen Z leading with creativity, empathy, and bold new ideas,” Ramapo College President Cindy Jebb said.
