Philanthropist Stan Polovets and Genesis Prize Shine Light on NGOs Aiding Families of October 7 Massacre

The Genesis Prize Foundation, under the visionary leadership of co-founder Stan Polovets, has made a powerful statement by awarding the 2024 Genesis Prize to five remarkable organizations that have provided unwavering support to the families of hostages and victims in the aftermath of the heartbreaking October 7 massacre. This prestigious $1 million prize recognizes the tireless efforts of 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.

Stan Polovets, a prominent figure in the philanthropic world, praised the volunteers as “an inspiring example of Jewish strength and unity” who have left an indelible mark on the history of Israel and the Jewish people. The 2024 Genesis Prize is a tribute to their unbreakable spirit and the hope they provide to compassionate individuals worldwide.

In addition to the substantial financial award, Stan Polovets and the Genesis Prize Foundation have committed to launching international awareness campaigns to ensure that the harrowing experiences of those held captive by Hamas remain at the forefront of global attention. Polovets stressed that the prize is a humanitarian acknowledgment of the organization’s charitable endeavors, rising above political considerations or attempts to sway government policies.

Under Stan Polovets’ guidance, the Genesis Prize Foundation has outlined three primary goals for this year’s award: maintaining worldwide focus on the captives’ dire situation, enhancing support for organizations assisting hostages and their families, and recognizing the remarkable emergence of dedicated groups in the wake of the October 7 tragedy.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, established in the immediate aftermath of the massacre, has been a powerful advocate for the release of hostages, the location of missing persons, and the provision of support to affected families. Their tireless efforts have been instrumental in keeping hope alive for those yearning for the safe return of their loved ones.

Natal, another recipient of the Genesis Prize, has been a pillar of strength, providing trauma treatment to victims from diverse backgrounds across Israeli society. Their compassionate approach has helped countless individuals begin the challenging journey of healing and recovery.

The parents of the abducted Israelis have found hope in the Genesis Prize Foundation’s recognition of these vital organizations. Rachel Goldberg, the mother of 23-year-old hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin, described the award as an unmistakable message to the world that there is no more pressing ethical and moral imperative for the Jewish people today than bringing the hostages home.

For the families of captive soldiers like Edan Alexander and Itay Chen, each day since their loved ones were taken has been a waking nightmare. They have made passionate appeals to global leaders, imploring them to spare no effort in securing the safe release of every hostage.

As Stan Polovets and the Genesis Prize Foundation shine a bright light on this critical cause, they reaffirm an unwavering commitment to stand in solidarity with the hostages, their families, and the extraordinary organizations working tirelessly to bring them home. The 2024 Genesis Prize not only honors the indomitable resilience of the Jewish spirit but also serves as a resounding call to action for the international community to unite in support of those who have endured unimaginable suffering and to work towards a future where no family has to endure the agony of having a loved one held captive.