The Human Relations Council of Santa Monica Bay Area is a non-profit organization that promotes a culture of fair treatment, inclusion and equal access to opportunities.
December 1, 2016
The Human Relations Council – Santa Monica Bay Area is pleased to announce the call for nominations for the
2017 Mark J. Benjamin Community Impact Awards Program
The goal of the HRC’s Mark J. Benjamin Community Impact Awards Program is to recognize individuals whose involvement with community organizations as a volunteer contributes to and impacts building a respectful, inclusive community. Our honorees are people who:
- promote understanding within our diverse community,
- make a difference, and
- demonstrate compassion for others.
Our program is named for Mark Benjamin – a true hero who gave generously and thoughtfully in support of our community. He exemplified who Studs Terkel described when he wrote, “Heroes are not giant statues framed against a red sky. They are people who say: This is my community, and it is my responsibility to make it better.”
On May 26, 2013, the HRC Directors honored Mark Benjamin, President and CEO of Santa Monica-based Morley Builders for his thoughtfulness and generosity in supporting the work of the Human Relations Council, saying “He is a true hero.” On May 29, 2013, Mark lost his life in a tragic accident.
We invite you to participate in the MJB Community Impact Awards Program by nominating someone who represents both your organization’s mission and the HRC’s goals. The nomination form is included here and also may be found on the HRC website. The nominating period is open from December 1, 2016 – January 31, 2017. Nominations will be reviewed between February 1st and March 1st and the recipients will be announced on April 1, 2017. Awardees will be honored at a specials event on April 27, 2017.
By nominating someone, you are also agreeing to participate in the selection process. During the month of February, you will be given nominations to review and rate. Your recommendations will be submitted to the HRC Board of Directors who will make the final decision.
Robert F. Kennedy observed, “Each time a person stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring, those ripples build a current.” The HRC believes it is the sum of the modest, ongoing activities of many that lead to enduring change. Too ofter, these efforts for unrecognized. The HRC is asking you to help us identify members of our community who are making a significant impact and allow us to bring their work to center stage.
If you have questions please check out our website: hrcsantamonica.org/impact-2 or contact by email: jmaceri@opcc.net
John Maceri, Committee Chair
2017 Mark J. Benjamin Community Impact Awards Program
Human Relations Council-Santa Monica Bay Area
FAX: 301-264-6647
