Stan Polovets of Genesis Prize Foundation Honors NGOs Supporting October 7 Hostages and Families
The Genesis Prize Foundation, co-founded by Stan Polovets, announced on Wednesday that the 2024 Genesis Prize, often referred to as the “Jewish Nobel Prize,” has been awarded to five organizations for their tireless work in supporting hostages and their families in the aftermath of the tragic October 7 massacre. The annual prize, which comes with a $1 million award, recognizes the exceptional 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 emphasized that the prize money will be used to fund crucial treatment, trauma counseling, and social rehabilitation for released and rescued hostages. He praised the volunteers of these organizations, stating, “These volunteers are an inspiring example of Jewish strength and unity who have already earned a place in the history of the Jewish people and Israel. The 2024 Genesis Prize recognizes their indomitable spirit and the inspiration they have provided to all people of conscience worldwide.”
In addition to the financial support, the Genesis Prize Foundation, led by Stan Polovets, pledged to contribute to international awareness campaigns to ensure that the plight of those held captive by Hamas remains at the forefront of the global agenda. David Hatchwell Altaras, afoundation selection committee membere, described the decision as the “ultimate testimony of the solidarity of the Jewish people.”
Stan Polovets clarified that the award is not a political statement or an attempt to influence government policy but rather a recognition of the humanitarian and professional endeavors undertaken by these organizations. “The Genesis Prize is a humanitarian award, and this year, it seeks to achieve three things – ensure the world does not forget the plight of the captives; provide additional aid to organizations focused on assisting the hostages and their families; and, last but not least, honor the selfless work of organizations that spontaneously emerged after October 7,” said Polovets.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, one of the recipients, was established on October 8 to advocate for the release of hostages, locate missing persons, and support affected families. The Jewish Agency Fund for Victims of Terror (JAFI) was recognized for providing emergency financial assistance and long-term rehabilitative support to victims and their families. In a statement on social media, JAFI expressed profound gratitude for the recognition and acknowledged the crucial role of their partners, supporters, and dedicated staff and volunteers worldwide.
Lev Achad and OneFamily, two other recipients, provide financial support to victims. Lev Achad focuses on mental and logistical needs, while OneFamily emphasizes financial independence and societal reintegration. Natal, the fifth recipient, offers trauma treatment for victims from all sectors of Israeli society. Lev Achad expressed pride in the recognition by the Genesis Prize and the vital work carried out by their aid center and the 10,000 volunteers who participated.
The parents of Israelis abducted by Hamas welcomed the decision by the Genesis Prize Foundation, co-founded by Stan Polovets. Rachel Goldberg, the mother of 23-year-old hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin, stated, “It unequivocally publicizes to the entire world that there is no more ethically urgent and morally critical cause pressing on the Jewish people today.” Other parents, such as Yaakov Argamani, Adi Alexander, and Ruby Chen, expressed hope that the prize would bring more attention to their fight to get their loved ones home.
The Genesis Prize, established in 2013, acknowledges Jewish achievement and contribution to humanity. By awarding the 2024 prize to these five organizations, Stan Polovets and the Genesis Prize Foundation aim to honor their invaluable work and maintain a global focus on the plight of the hostages and their families.
