SPECIAL AWARDS
Learn more about Action For Nature's International Young Eco-Hero Special Awards honoring our founding members
SPECIAL AWARDS
Action For Nature is proud to present three Special Awards that celebrate exceptional young environmentalists and pay tribute to our founding members. These awards honor individuals whose extraordinary dedication, creativity, and impact embody the spirit of environmental stewardship envisioned by our founders. By highlighting groundbreaking projects that inspire communities and drive meaningful change, we continue to honor their legacy and commitment to a healthier planet.
Shimon Schwarzschild Award
This award is presented in memory of the founder of Action For Nature, Shimon Schwarzschild. Shimon was an early environmentalist, activist, and visionary thinker. He remained a supporter and board member throughout his life. This award honors a Young Eco-Hero who exemplifies the qualities that guided Shimon’s long life of activism.
Dr. Mary Griffin-Jones Award
This award is presented in memory of Dr. Mary (Mimi) Griffin-Jones, a founding member of Action For Nature. Mimi was a physician, artist, and author who loved children and animals and who supported environmental issues throughout her life. She was a longtime board member and benefactor of Action For Nature. This award honors a Young Eco-Hero who exemplifies the accomplishments important to Mimi.
Dr. Evelyn Ballard de Ghetaldi Award
This award is presented in memory of Dr. Evelyn Ballard de Ghetaldi, a founding member of Action For Nature. Everyone deserves to grow up breathing clean air, drinking clean water, and living somewhere safe and healthy. But environmental harm doesn't land on everyone equally. Pollution, unsafe drinking water, and the worst effects of climate change often hit certain groups the hardest: people with less money, Indigenous communities, communities of color, girls and women, and people in countries that did the least to cause these problems. Environmental justice means focusing extra effort on these groups: fixing the harm they face and making sure they are included in deciding what happens next. This award especially recognizes young people whose work represents this environmental justice, focusing on helping these groups who need it most rather than helping everyone at the same time.