Nassan's Place Founder Nadine Wright-Arbubakkr Receives Prestigious Honor As One Of New Jersey's Changemakers

East Orange, NJ - The Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award has been recognizing New Jersey change makers for almost 30 years. Established by the late Russell Berrie and hosted by Ramapo College of New Jersey, the awards honor New Jersey residents whose outstanding community service and heroic acts have made a substantial impact on the lives of others.

" My father passionately believed that one person's actions to better the lives of others could inspire people to take similar action," said Scott Berrie, vice president of the Board of Trustees of The Russell Berrie Foundation, the Teaneck, NJ-based philanthropy that carries out Russ Berrie’s legacy and charitable giving vision by recognizing New Jerseyans who are creating positive change in their communities.

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With over 400 honorees since the inception of the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award in 1997, more than $4.1 million in cash awards have been presented to recognize the personal sacrifices and commitments these individuals have made to serve others. Their work is improving people’s lives and making communities stronger. Nominees typically include community leaders, affinity groups, ethnic and religious organizations, nonprofit leaders, and volunteers, among many others. Their work promotes community service, volunteerism, social justice, community life, environmental issues, and a range of advocacy topics.

"We have been truly blessed to commemorate his vision and spirit by celebrating more than 400 incredible individuals, representing every county in New Jersey. Their selflessness, resourcefulness, and the diversity of their backgrounds and endeavors have improved the lives of countless people in need throughout the state," added Scott Berrie.

This year, awards totaling $167,500 were presented to 12 honorees.

The 2024 Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award honorees include:

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• Nadine Wright-Arbubakkr, East Orange, Nassan's Place

• Phyllis DiNardi, Ocean Township, We Are Loved

• Kristy Whilden, Elmer, HandsUp Silent Theater

• Riccardo Dale, Beverly, Free All Minds Academy

• Shirley Green, Cape May, Whitesboro Historical Foundation Museum

• Ron Hine, Hoboken, Fund for a Better Waterfront

• Trinity Jagdeo, Vineland, From We Can’t to We Can

• Mark Leschinsky, Mahwah, Student World Impact Film Festival (SWIFF)

• Ruth Perez, Camden, Movimento Tricolor

• Kim Sleeman, Short Hills, The Warehouse

• Ralph Stowe, Sayreville, Jazz for Prostate Cancer Awareness

• Maud Dahme, Flemington, Lifetime Service Award

Nadine Wright-Arbubakkr of East Orange understands the challenges faced by parents of children with autism spectrum disorder, particularly in under-resourced communities. When her son Nassan was diagnosed, Nadine struggled to find services and support in the East Orange/Newark area. She created Nassan's Place to fill that gap and provide accessible and affordable educational and recreational programs for children and families affected by autism in and around inner-city communities in New Jersey. In the past 12 years, Nadine has touched the lives of thousands and is a sought-after speaker, advocate, and coach for families affected by autism. She received a $25,000 award.

"It began when we got the diagnosis of Autism. At the time, I was working in the banking industry and could no longer work those 16-hour days. I had no idea about Autism and I had trouble locating services in my community. I found services, but they were not here, I committed to making sure another parent living with this diagnosis wouldn't feel alone. It's been 12 years, and we've changed the lives of so many children and families," said Nadine Wright-Arbubakkr.. "Autism doesn't mean we stop living, it just means we live differently. I'm humbled, grateful, and truly honored to be one of this year's honorees, because we don't do this for recognition, but for the service," she added.

About the Russell Berrie Foundation

The Russell Berrie Foundation was established in 1985 by Russell Berrie, an entrepreneur and philanthropist. He had a passion for giving that was grounded in his deep belief in humanity, the importance of touching the lives of ordinary people, the importance of strengthening the local community in New Jersey, and the power of using philanthropy to help achieve transformational change. The Russell Berrie Foundation seeks to continue Russ’ mission by providing significant support to strengthen New Jersey’s arts, cultural, and health care institutions, and celebrates everyday people who make a difference in the lives of others through the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award.

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