Russ Berrie “Making a Difference” Award Recap: Honoring Leadership, Legacy, & Love

This year, Lewis Spears, our Founder and Executive Director of Kismet of Kings, was honored as a Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award recipient — a prestigious statewide recognition celebrating individuals who go above and beyond to make New Jersey a better place.

Held at Ramapo College, the ceremony honored a powerful group of unsung heroes across the state. Lewis was recognized for his tireless work empowering young men of color, creating safe spaces for healing, mentorship, and leadership, and founding programs that transform trauma into purpose. Through Kismet of Kings, Lewis has reached thousands of youth and families, proving that when community leads with love, transformation follows.

“This award isn’t just for me — it’s for every young man who has walked through our doors and dared to believe he could be more.” — Lewis Spears

We’re incredibly proud of this statewide recognition — and even more proud of the impact Lewis and the entire Kismet Krew continue to make every single day. Read more here.