Genesis Prize Celebrates a Decade of Impactful Philanthropy
Celebrating a decade of impactful philanthropy, the Genesis Prize supports initiatives and individuals dedicated to bettering the world
NEW YORK, NY - (NewMediaWire) - March 28, 2024 - It's the perfect time to reflect on The Genesis Prize Foundation's significant impact and mission. Dubbed the "Jewish Nobel" by Time magazine, the Genesis Prize stands out for honoring and supporting remarkable people and projects that make a significant difference in society while reflecting Jewish values.
Since its creation in 2013, the prize celebrates and rewards the achievements and contributions of Jewish luminaries who motivate and inspire future generations. Every year, it recognizes honorees known for outstanding achievements, dedication to Jewish values, and efforts to improve the world.
"The mission of the Genesis Prize is to create a space where we can cast politics aside and come together to appreciate Jewish accomplishments that contribute so much to human civilization; to contemplate Jewish identity and values and what they mean in the 21st century; to strengthen the bond between Israel and the Jewish Diaspora; and to celebrate pride in being Jewish," stated Stan Polovets, CEO and co-founder.
In 2024, the foundation awarded $1 million to five distinguished Israeli nongovernmental organizations, marking a significant gesture of support for the urgent cause of securing the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza and supporting the hostages' families. This decision highlighted its commitment to humanitarian efforts over political statements, focusing on groups actively addressing the critical needs arising from the hostage situation.
"The award is not a political statement, and it is not our mission to influence government policy. The Genesis Prize is a humanitarian award, and this year, it seeks to achieve three things: Ensure the world does not forget the plight of captives, provide additional aid to organizations focused on assisting the hostages and their families, and honor the selfless work of organizations that spontaneously emerged after Oct. 7," stated Polovets.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum was recognized for its pivotal role in offering both emotional and medical support to families grappling with the harsh realities of having loved ones held as hostages. Their efforts have provided much-needed solace and assistance during challenging times.
Similarly, the Jewish Agency for Israel's Fund for Victims of Terror was honored for its emergency aid to terror-impacted individuals and families, providing a crucial support system in the immediate aftermath of terror incidents.
Lev Echad ("one heart" in Hebrew) received accolades for its round-the-clock support focusing on the mental, financial, and logistical needs of families of abducted persons, playing a key role in their ongoing struggle for normalcy.
NATAL the Israel Trauma and Resiliency Center, known for its therapeutic support to those affected by terror and war, was also among the recipients, recognized for its noncritical, healing-focused approach to trauma.
Lastly, OneFamily was celebrated for its comprehensive support to terror and war victims in securing government benefits and accessing holistic therapies, aiding in the rehabilitation of entire families affected by such tragedies.
Through their relentless dedication and service, these organizations reflect The Genesis Prize Foundation's values of life and freedom and stand as beacons of hope and resilience in the face of adversity, making a tangible difference in the lives of many.
Recognizing Past Laureates' Contributions
The Genesis Prize has allocated $50 million through grants and matching funds, leveraging additional contributions from other donors. Genesis Prize laureates have been individuals who are both world-renowned and have achieved remarkable success. Collaborating with laureates on projects that resonate with their passions, the foundation amplifies their platforms to reach a wider audience.
Each laureate brings a unique vision and values to the forefront. By highlighting these individuals and their work, the foundation enhances the impact of Jewish values in action.
Michael Bloomberg was the inaugural recipient of the Genesis Prize in 2014. He was honored for his professional leadership, innovative philanthropy, and commitment to promoting Jewish values. Bloomberg was recognized for his significant achievements and contributions and his efforts in upholding and advancing these values.
During his acceptance speech, Bloomberg said, "Freedom. Justice. Service. Ambition. Innovation. These values have guided me through life. I think they're the same values that have guided the Jewish people through adversity and exile, poverty and plagues right up to the creation of Israel. They are the reason Israel has such a remarkable startup spirit and why it has become such a powerful driver of progress in tech, medicine, and communications. To the future awardees in the Genesis generation, I offer a few words of advice: Follow your convictions. Think big. Take chances. Believe that tomorrow can be better than today and understand that it's your responsibility to help make it so."
The late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was awarded the first Genesis Lifetime Achievement Award on Nov. 15, 2017. This honor recognized her pioneering legal work in civil liberties and women's rights. Ginsburg, an associate justice of the United States Supreme Court, was celebrated for her influential contributions to these areas. The award ceremony took place at the Peres Center in Tel Aviv, Israel, where Ginsburg received a glass sculpture of a shofar as part of the honor.
"I am a judge, born, raised, and proud of being a Jew. The demand for justice, for peace, and for enlightenment runs through the entirety of Jewish history and Jewish tradition. I hope, in all the years I have the good fortune to continue serving on the bench of the Supreme Court of the United States, I will have the strength and courage to remain steadfast in the service of that demand," she stated.
In 2021, Steven Spielberg received the Genesis Prize. The foundation recognized him for his monumental contributions to cinema, his philanthropic leadership, and his commitment to preserving the memory of the Holocaust. Spielberg, celebrated as one of the most influential filmmakers in cinematic history, has directed films that have captivated millions around the globe. In addition to his creative achievements, his active stance against antisemitism and his efforts to address social issues through his philanthropic work were pivotal factors in his selection for this honor.
"The Genesis Prize celebrates Steven Spielberg's unique talent, his commitment to making the world a better place, and his unparalleled contribution to teaching the postwar generations about the horrors of the Holocaust. We are delighted to welcome Steven Spielberg to the distinguished family of Genesis Prize honorees," stated Polovets.
These laureates, among others, illustrate the breadth and depth of the Prize's commitment to honoring those who blend excellence in their fields with a deep commitment to bettering the world. Each laureate's unique contributions demonstrate the diverse ways in which Jewish values can be actualized to address global challenges, serving as inspiration for future generations.
Genesis Prize's Community Engagement and Support
The foundation's dedication to sparking change and backing philanthropic projects has made a real difference in communities all over the globe. Its influence goes beyond the money given to the causes chosen by the laureates. It has built a worldwide network of supporters, partners, and activists, all dedicated to philanthropy and social change. This community has been vital in broadening the scope and boosting the success of the projects supported by the Genesis Prize.
The foundation's commitment to humanitarian causes, exemplified by its recent support for Israeli organizations working to release hostages held by Hamas and support the hostages' families, underscores a broader mission of fostering unity, celebrating Jewish achievement, and addressing pressing global challenges. This ethos of philanthropy and advocacy, embodied by the foundation and its laureates, continues to inspire and galvanize communities worldwide, reinforcing the importance of solidarity, compassion, and action in the face of adversity. With each passing year, The Genesis Prize Foundation honors outstanding contributions to society and strengthens the ties that bind us, encouraging a collective pursuit of a brighter, more inclusive future.
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