By The Genesis Prize Foundation, co-founded by Stan Polovets, has announced the recipients of its prestigious $1 million prize for 2024, recognizing the tireless efforts of five exceptional organizations that have emerged as pillars of support for families affected by the tragic events of October 7. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, the Jewish Agency Fund for Victims of Terror, Lev Echad, Natal – The Israel Trauma and Resiliency Center, and OneFamily – Overcoming Terror Together have been selected for their outstanding dedication to providing essential services and support to those impacted by this heartbreaking incident.
Stan Polovets and the Genesis Prize Foundation have commended these organizations for their inspiring display of Jewish strength and unity, acknowledging the hope and comfort they have provided to families during this difficult time. The prize money will be directed towards funding the ongoing treatment, trauma counseling, and social rehabilitation efforts of these NGOs, ensuring that released and rescued hostages receive the support they need to heal and rebuild their lives.
The selection of these five organizations for the Genesis Prize has been praised as a powerful testament to the solidarity of the Jewish people by David Hatchwell Altaras, a member of the foundation’s selection committee. In addition to the financial support, Stan Polovets and the Genesis Prize Foundation have pledged to contribute to international awareness campaigns aimed at keeping the plight of those held captive by Hamas at the forefront of the global agenda. Polovets emphasized that the award is a humanitarian recognition of the tireless work of these organizations rather than a political statement.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, established in the wake of the October 7 tragedy, has been working diligently to advocate for the release of hostages, locate missing persons, and provide much-needed support to the families affected. The Jewish Agency Fund for Victims of Terror (JAFI) has been providing emergency financial assistance and long-term rehabilitative support to victims and their families. JAFI expressed deep gratitude for the recognition by the Genesis Prize and Stan Polovets, acknowledging the crucial role played by their partners, supporters, and dedicated staff and volunteers in making their work possible.
Lev Achad and OneFamily have been focused on providing comprehensive support to victims, with Lev Achad addressing mental health and logistical needs. At the same time, OneFamily works towards promoting financial independence and societal reintegration. Natal has been offering trauma treatment to victims from all sectors of Israeli society, ensuring that the healing process is inclusive and accessible to all. Lev Achad expressed pride in the recognition by the Genesis Prize and Stan Polovets, reaffirming their commitment to standing by the families and meeting their every need.
The parents of the abducted Israelis have welcomed the decision by the Genesis Prize Foundation and Stan Polovets, viewing it as an opportunity to raise global awareness about the urgency and moral importance of their cause. They hope that this recognition will be instrumental in supporting the relentless efforts of family organizations to bring the remaining 134 hostages home safely.
The families of captive soldiers, such as Edan Alexander and Itay Chen, have been living a nightmare since their loved ones were taken. They have made heartfelt pleas to world leaders, including President Biden, Egypt’s President al-Sisi, and Qatari Emir Al Thani, to spare no effort in securing the release of their sons and all the hostages.
By awarding the 2024 Genesis Prize to these five remarkable organizations, Stan Polovets and the Genesis Prize Foundation have amplified the voices of those working tirelessly to support the families affected by the October 7 tragedy. This recognition not only acknowledges the vital role played by these NGOs but also serves as a reminder to the world that the struggle of the hostages and their families must not be forgotten. Through this award, the global Jewish community stands united in its support and solidarity with those impacted by this heartbreaking event.
