Awards Honor 4 Newark Residents Who Are ‘Unsung Heroes’

NEWARK, NJ — Several “unsung heroes” in Newark will get some well-deserved recognition for making their community a better place to live (see the list below).

On May 7, the Russell Berrie Foundation will recognize unsung heroes from across New Jersey for their “compassion and selfless dedication to others” during the 25th anniversary celebration of the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award.

A top prize of $50,000, four awards of $25,000 and 14 awards of $7,500 will be presented this year. The award has now given $3.75 million to 380 people, each of whom has an inspiring story to tell about how they made a difference in their communities.

According to a news release from the foundation and Ramapo College of New Jersey:

“This past year, as communities across New Jersey and the country faced an array of challenges caused by the pandemic, concern over racial injustice unrest and natural disasters, unsung heroes stepped up to help feed, comfort and educate their neighbors, and in other ways protect public health and safety.”

In Newark, those people include:

ENVIRONMENTAL CRUSADER – Kim Gaddy of Newark has spent more than 20 years on the frontlines fighting for environmental justice in New Jersey communities of color, starting in her own South Ward neighborhood where she raised her three children who suffered from chronic asthma. That personal experience and losing her brother-in-law to a fatal asthma attack compelled her to be a voice for communities impacted by industrial pollution. After a decade of tenacious advocacy by Kim and other environmental leaders, New Jersey now has the strongest environmental justice legislation in the nation. In recognition of her steadfast leadership, she is the recipient of a $25,000 award.

FIGHTING FOOD INSECURITY – Maria Torres of Newark became the manager of United Community Corporation’s Champion House food pantry just weeks before the onset of COVID-19. Recently diagnosed with Lupus, she was at extremely high risk yet never wavered in her commitment to the community. As lockdowns and unemployment led to a huge rise in food insecurity, the pantry served 150,000 people in 2020 — an increase of more than 1,000 percent over prior years. Maria will receive a $25,000 award for her dedicated service.

GEM PROJECT - Amanda Ebokosia, Newark, is founder of The Gem Project, which educates young people about critical issues affecting their communities through activism and service-learning, youth strengthen skills of leadership and community organizing. Ebokosia will receive a $7,500 award.

PARENTS COUNCIL – Wilhelmina Holder, Newark, is president of Newark Secondary Parents Council. Decades after having children in the public education system, she continues to advocate for equity and opportunity for young people in Newark Public Schools. Holder will receive a $7,500 award.

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