Voice of Kindness Award

Mark Schonwetter, Holocaust Survivor

We honor those who promote empathy and compassion

The Voice of Kindness Award honors individuals who promote empathy and compassion through their work. Each year, we recognize this special recipient during our annual Journey for the Living fundraising kickoff event, celebrating their extraordinary efforts to create a world where all people are treated with kindness and respect. Honoring these exceptional individuals matters, as it encourages others to follow in their footsteps and make strides to promote caring in their communities.

Past Recipients

2025

Aija Mayrock | Bestselling Author, Content Creator, Advocate

Aija Mayrock

Bestselling Author, Content Creator, Advocate

“The stories of Holocaust survivors must never be forgotten, and I am committed to using my platform to amplify their voices and ensure that future generations learn from history.”  –  Aija Mayrock

2024

Michelle Charlesworth, Anchor, WABC7 Eyewitness News

Michelle Charlesworth

Anchor, WABC7 Eyewitness News

“I am absolutely thrilled and humbled to be recognized by a group dedicated to first-hand experiential education about the Holocaust. I was honored to meet Mark Schonwetter years ago and to write about his story of surviving the Holocaust as a boy. What is amazing is that his story is also about hope, faith, family, and the kindness of strangers. Regular people willing to risk their lives for others facing immoral persecution.” – Michelle Charlesworth

2023

Claudia Oshrey, Comedian, Girl with No Job, and Co-host of The Toast Podcast

Claudia Oshry

Comedian, @girlwithnojob and co-host of The Toast Podcast

“Receiving anything, let alone an award, from Mark Schonwetter feels backwards to me but I am honored nonetheless. Mark and his family do amazing work and I am humbled to be the tiniest part of it.” – Claudia Oshry

2021

Mark Schonwetter, MSHEF co-founder

Inaugural Recipient: Mark Schonwetter

Founder, MSHEF

“Live every day with love not hatred and you will accomplish so much more in life.” – Mark Schonwetter

 

Tracy Wolfson, CBS Sports Lead Reporter, helped announce our inaugural Voice of Kindness Award recipient, Mark Schonwetter.

Tracy Wolfson announces inaugural Voice of Kindness Award recipient, Mark Schonwetter