SEATTLE — The World of Children Award funds the most effective leaders who are committed to improving the lives of vulnerable children worldwide.
Since 1998, they have invested $6 million in cash grants and program support to 100 Honorees considered to be the backbone behind these sustainable programs, estimated to have supported at least 30 million children.
The World of Children Award is also the only global recognition and funding program that focuses on a broad range of issues that are exclusive to children, including health, hunger and nutrition, education, safety and human rights. The success of the global award program traces back to its founder who wanted to honor those who selflessly devoted their lives to vulnerable children.
Harry Leibowitz who was no stranger to dealing with personal adversity had concerns for the welfare of children and wanted the World of Children Award to be as prestigious as the Nobel Prize. It was also important to him to get children involved, so he invited them to share their ideas for the World of Children logo.
One boy in Ohio who had been abused early in his life drew an image of a small child, cracked and broken, but with a bright red heart. “I may be broken, but I still have a heart,” the boy told Leibowitz.
Leibowitz was so moved by the powerful message that he used it as the central base for the existing logo, adding a globe and a ring of children encircling the boy’s drawing to represent the universality of the message.
The World of Children Award not only recognizes that children are the world’s most important asset, it also recognizes the courageous leaders who want them to have a successful track record, regardless of political, religious or geographical boundaries.
Last year, they hosted the 2014 Annual Awards Ceremony to honor six Honorees in one of New York City’s finest venues, 583 Park Avenue. It was an evening dedicated to bringing hope and comfort to the children who are the focus of their work.
Nominations for the 2015 Awards are now open. Honorees who are chosen to receive a 2015 World of Children Award will be announced in September later this year. The nominations for awards are being accepted in the following categories:
The Health Award recognizes an individual who has made a significant contribution to children in the fields of health, medicine or the sciences; minimum grant of $50,000. The Humanitarian Award recognizes an individual who has made a significant contribution to children in the areas of social services, education or humanitarian services; minimum grant of $50,000. The Youth Award recognizes those under the age of 21 who are making extraordinary contributions to the lives of other children; minimum grant of $25,000. The Education Award recognizes individuals who are making extraordinary contributions to the lives of vulnerable children in their educational development; minimum grant of $50,000. This is a new addition to the previous awards.
Though the World of Children Award recognizes only six Honorees, people who are interested in taking part of the mission can still get involved.
– Chelsee Yee
Sources: World of Children, Huffington Post, PR News Wire
Photo: Blogspot