New York, Feb. 28 … First Responders Children’s Foundation (FRCF) today announced that it has won the Humanitarian Action & Services Nonprofit Campaign Silver Medal at this year’s Anthem Awards for its video, “The Bravest” which can be viewed here.
The video features FRCF scholarship recipient Samantha Switzer, whose father, William Switzer, a former New York City firefighter, lost his life to a 9/11- related illness. Samantha was working three jobs while trying to finish college when she received the scholarship, which helped her realize her dream of becoming a nurse. Now Samantha is coming to the rescue of other people — just like her father did.
“First Responders Children’s Foundation is both proud and grateful for this major national recognition of its work on behalf of the children of U.S. first responders,” said FRCF President and CEO Jillian Crane. “First responders put their lives on the line for us every day, and their children and family members experience unique challenges and anxieties in constantly worrying about the safety of their loved ones. Samantha Switzer is one of our brightest lights, and her story and dedication to others inspire us to do more for the children of first responders each and every day.”
First Responders Children’s Foundation is a national foundation that provides programs and resources that address the specific needs of children of first responders. The Foundation focuses on critical areas, including scholarships, financial assistance grants, bereavement assistance, mental health counseling for children, and community engagement.
Anthem winners are selected by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences. Members include: Nicholas Thompson, CEO, The Atlantic; Christina Swarns, Executive Director, Innocence Project; Zarna Surti, Global Creative Director Nike Purpose; Maurice Mitchell, National Director, Working Families Party; Lindsay Stein, Chief Purpose Office Tombras; Jennifer Lotito, President & Chief Operating Officer (RED); Lisa Sherman, President & CEO, The Ad Council; Emily Barfoot, Global Brand Director Dove, Unilever; Trovon Williams, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications, NAACP; Roma McCaig, Senior VP of Impact, Clif Bar; Michelle Egan, Chief Strategy Officer, NRDC; Dinah-Kareen Jean, Senior Manager, Social Innovation, Etsy; Sarah Kate Ellis, President & CEO, GLAAD; Jad Finck, Vice President of Innovation & Sustainability Allbirds; Christopher Miller, Head of Global Activism Strategy, Ben & Jerry’s, and Shayla Tait, Director of Philanthropy, The Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation.
“Since launching this platform in June of 2021, we have seen that social change has emerged as a dominant force in mainstream culture.” said Anthem Awards Managing Director Jessica Lauretti. “The sheer number, breadth and overall quality of the entries shared with us in the 2nd Annual Awards is a testament to the strength of this growing movement and demonstrates an enduring commitment to the work that is both humbling and inspiring to see. From the war in Ukraine, to protests in Iran and the ongoing battle for equality here at home in the States, the call for change not only perseveres but is a growing global chorus.”
The Anthem Awards were launched in 2021 in response to the importance of social good within the national conversation and cultural zeitgeist. The 2nd Annual competition received nearly 2,000 entries from 43 countries worldwide. By amplifying the voices that spark global change, the Anthem Awards are defining a new benchmark for impactful work that inspires others to take action in their communities. A portion of program revenue will fund a new grant program supporting emerging individuals and organizations working to advance the causes recognized in the 2nd Annual Anthem Awards.
Find The Anthem Awards Online:
Website: anthemawards.com
Facebook: facebook.com/anthemawards
Twitter:@anthemawards
Instagram: @anthemawards
LinkedIn: The Anthem Awards
YouTube: wbby.co/anthem-youtube
About The Anthem Awards:
Launched in 2021 by The Webby Awards, The Anthem Awards honors the purpose & mission-driven work of people, companies and organizations worldwide. By amplifying the voices that spark global change, we’re defining a new benchmark for impactful work that inspires others to take action in their own communities. The Anthem Awards honors work across seven core causes: Diversity; Equity & Inclusion; Education; Art & Culture; Health; Human & Civil Rights; Humanitarian Action & Services; Responsible Technology; and Sustainability, Environment & Climate. Founded in partnership with the Ad Council, Born This Way Foundation, Feeding America, Glaad, Mozilla, NAACP, NRDC, WWF, and XQ.
About The Webby Awards:
Hailed as the “Internet’s highest honor” by The New York Times, The Webby Awards is the leading international awards organization honoring excellence on the Internet, including Websites; Video; Advertising, Media & PR; Apps, Mobile, and Voice; Social; Podcasts; and Games. Established in 1996, The Webby Awards received more than 13,500 entries from all 50 states and 70 countries worldwide this year. The Webby Awards are presented by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences (IADAS). Sponsors and Partners of The Webby Awards include Verizon, WP Engine, YouGov, Brandlive, Canva, NAACP, KPMG, Fast Company, Wall Street Journal, MediaPost, Podcast Movement, and AIGA.
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ABOUT FIRST RESPONDERS CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION (FRCF)
First Responders Children’s Foundation is a national foundation that provides programs and resources that address the specific needs of children of first responders. The Foundation focuses on critical areas, including scholarships, financial assistance grants; bereavement assistance, mental health counseling for children; and community engagement. FRCF also supports first responder families enduring significant financial hardship due to tragic circumstances, including injury in the line of duty. FRCF was founded over 21 years ago in response to 9/11 when 800 children lost a first responder parent.Additional information about FRCF can be found at www.1stRCF.org and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @1strcf.
Bill O’Reilly
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bill@oreillycommunications.com