The Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award recognized 10 honorees with a total of $152,500 for their remarkable work throughout New Jersey. On May 9, 2025, Nyene Baker, Founder and CEO of Visionary Philanthropy Group (VPG), was honored with the prestigious Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award, becoming one of just ten recipients selected from over 500 nominees across New Jersey. This award—now in its 29th year—recognizes extraordinary changemakers who are committed to building a more compassionate and just world.

Nyene holds a unique place in the award’s history: he is the third returning citizen—and the only returning citizen from Trenton—to ever receive the honor. Through his steadfast leadership and bold vision, Nyene exemplifies the award’s spirit, proving that true change begins with those courageous enough to take action.

In a society where systemic barriers often dictate outcomes, Nyene Baker stands as living proof that transformation is possible. Having experienced incarceration himself, he brings a deeply personal understanding of the challenges facing returning citizens. But instead of letting those challenges define him, he has transformed his journey into a powerful force for change.

Through Visionary Philanthropy Group, Nyene supports returning citizens and at-risk youth with mentorship, violence prevention resources, and tech-based training. His work goes beyond rehabilitation—it’s about empowerment,providing individuals with the tools and support needed to break cycles of harm and build thriving futures.

Nyene’s innovative approach combines compassion, education, and opportunity. Under his leadership, VPG hasdelivered measurable and lasting impact. The organization has served over 280 individuals through evidence-informed programs, including:

• Returning Citizens’ Motivation Program 101

Partnered with the City of Trenton to serve 20 participants.

• Violence Prevention and Intervention Program

Reached 100+ youth, led by three returning citizen facilitators.

• Google BreakBeatCode Program

Included three youth-focused trips to Google’s NYC headquarters.

• Grow with Google Career Certificate Scholarship Program

Awarded 45+ scholarships, with six participants completing programs that led to employment opportunities.

From mentorship that guides young minds to cutting-edge tech initiatives that unlock new career paths, VPG is abeacon of hope and possibility. It stands as a model for how to equip individuals with real-world tools to reclaim their futures and uplift their communities.

Nyene’s remarkable journey and work have drawn national attention. Following the Russ Berrie Award, he was interviewed on ON NJ News by seven-time Emmy Award-winning anchor Ken Rosato, who praised Nyene’s contributions, stating:

“America needs about a million more of you.”

Nyene Baker and the entire VPG team extend their heartfelt thanks to the Russell Berrie Foundation for this incrediblehonor and for recognizing the transformative work they continue to pursue. Special thanks are also given to Kathy Carliner, Senior Vice President of Rosica Communications, and Sarah Cuba, Senior Account Executive, for their outstanding support and partnership. Rosica Communications, ranked by Forbes as one of America’s Best PRAgencies, has played a key role in amplifying VPG’s mission and message.

Nyene Baker’s story is one of redemption, resilience, and relentless commitment to change. It’s a call to action—for institutions, communities, and individuals—to believe in second chances and to invest in the potential of people. Through leadership rooted in lived experience, Nyene continues to redefine what’s possible and build a future that leaves no one behind.

Please click this link to view Nyene Baker’s interview on OnNJ news: https://www.onnj.com/videos/russ-berrie-making-a-difference-award-recipient/. To donate, please go to www.vpgrp.org.

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