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
“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
“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 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
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.