The Roslyn S. Jaffe Awards (the “Awards”) launched in 2014 in recognition of the lifelong contributions of Roslyn S. Jaffe, co-founder of the first dressbarn store in 1962 and Director Emeritus of ascena retail group, inc. The Awards recognizes the creators and founders of social impact organizations that are improving the lives of women and children, specifically in the areas of health, education, social reform and self-esteem.
“There is great need in our communities today, especially facing women and children, and through the Awards, we can celebrate those who are making the world a better place and driving lasting impact,” says Mrs. Jaffe. “While we are proud to provide our support through grant money, it is these individuals who are the true heroes and the people making a difference. I’m so excited to announce our third year of support, and can’t wait to hear the wonderful stories of this year’s nominees.”
Each year, Roslyn Jaffe, Elise Jaffe and an esteemed Selection Committee with expertise in women's causes, public affairs, health and education selects the Awards winners who receive financial grants. As a result of the Awards, winners are able to increase exposure, credibility, funding opportunities, and often the potential for expanded programming, collaborations and partnerships with other peer organizations. The 2015 Roslyn S. Jaffe Awards winners included:
· Connecticut-based All Our Kin, which trains and supports community childcare providers to ensure that children and families have the foundation they need to succeed in school and in life. (Grand Prize Recipient, $100,000)
· St. Louis-based VolunTEEN Nation, which connects young people with organizations, service projects and resources in low-income areas to learn new skills that will impact their communities. (Grant Recipient, $25,000)
· Chicago-based Polished Pebbles Girls Mentoring Program, which provides low-income, inner-city girls with the opportunity to learn effective communication in preparation for personal and professional endeavors. (Grant Recipient, $25,000)
“Because of the grant money we received from the Jaffe Awards, we've been able to raise the quality of care and education for our family care providers,” said Jessica Sager, co-founder and executive director at All Our Kin. “With the support of the Jaffe Awards, in 2016 we'll reach nearly 450 caregivers, with the capacity to serve over 2,600 children. We’ve also begun to attract national attention; in just the past few months, our work has been highlighted by leaders in the field ranging from the Stanford Social Innovation Review, to the New America Foundation, to the Federal Office of Child Care. Cities and states across the country are looking to All Our Kin as a model, and are thinking of ways they can better support family care providers in their own communities; we have big plans for growth."
The 2016 Roslyn S. Jaffe Awards will once again grant $100,000 to a Grand Prize Winner and $25,000 to two runner-up awardees. Deadline for entry is June 15, 2016. Winners will be announced at the end of September and will be honored at the Third Annual Roslyn S. Jaffe Awards Luncheon in October, hosted by acclaimed journalist and philanthropist Soledad O’Brien.
To submit a nomination online, visit www.jaffeawards.com/jaffe/
