Stan Polovets Announces Genesis Prize Will Honor Groups Seeking Hostage Release and Supporting Families 

Genesis Prize co-founder and CEO Stan Polovets has announced that the 2024 “Jewish Nobel” prize will go to Israeli organizations working to free Gaza hostages and aid their families.

This marks the second time the prestigious humanitarian award will honor a group. Last year, Jewish organizations assisting Ukrainians were recognized. This award spotlights the pressing need to release over 100 detainees while supporting relatives.

Yaakov Argamani, father of 26-year-old captive Noa Argamani, voiced gratitude, stating the groups “work tirelessly to bring them home.” He urged global backing to “bring our loved ones home now.”

Polovets said the prize is apolitical. It aims to sustain attention on prisoners, fund support groups, and praise volunteers’ “indomitable spirit” after emerging post-October 7 to assist families.

The Selection Committee first chose five Israeli NGOs for grants. These include the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, providing medical/emotional support; the Jewish Agency Fund for Terror Victims, delivering emergency aid; Lev Echad, helping relatives of abductees with needs; NATAL’s Israel Trauma Center, offering terror/war trauma treatment; and OneFamily, aiding terror victims with government benefits and rehabilitation. More may be added as necessities arise.

The 2024 Prize also honors relatives and advocates for remarkable efforts. Polovets said they “exemplify Jewish strength and unity, upholding the core values of life and freedom.”

The Genesis Prize Foundation pursues Jewish unity and progress. Its yearly prize honors Jewish values and humanitarian contributions.

This year’s award draws attention to volunteers Polovets termed “an inspiring example of Jewish strength and unity who have already earned a place in Jewish history.” It also provides essential funding and conveys global solidarity.

As Yaakov Argamani urged, “We call on all decent people to help bring our loved ones home.” The Genesis Prize seeks to respond to that plea.