.ORG Impact Awards 2020: Recognizing Changemakers Across the Globe

The Public Interest Registry (PIR), the organization behind the .ORG domain, has announced the recipients of the prestigious 2020 .ORG Impact Awards. These awards celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of organizations dedicated to making a positive impact on the world. In a year marked by unprecedented challenges, these organizations have demonstrated resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to their respective causes.

Days for Girls International: Awarded .ORG of the Year and Combating Coronavirus Award

Traditionally presented at an awards ceremony, the 2020 awards were announced online over a period of ten days, adapting to the realities of the global pandemic. This format allowed for a wider audience to participate in the celebration of these remarkable organizations and their impactful work.

Days for Girls International: A Double Win

Days for Girls International emerged as the top winner, receiving a total of $45,000. They were honored with both the .ORG of the Year award, carrying a prize of $30,000, and the Combating Coronavirus Award, worth $15,000. This dual recognition highlights their exceptional efforts in addressing critical needs during the pandemic and beyond.

Days for Girls International is dedicated to creating a more dignified, equitable, and healthy world for girls and women through menstrual health solutions and education. Their innovative programs and global reach have empowered countless individuals and communities.

Other Award Recipients: Champions of Change

In addition to Days for Girls International, several other organizations were recognized for their outstanding contributions, each receiving $5,000. These organizations represent a diverse range of causes and demonstrate the breadth of impact within the .ORG community.

Combatting Coronavirus

Days for Girls International: Masks for Millions & Periods Don’t Pause for Pandemics

Days for Girls rapidly adapted to the pandemic by producing and distributing millions of masks while continuing to address the critical needs of menstrual health management for girls and women worldwide. Their dual focus on pandemic relief and ongoing support exemplifies their commitment to holistic well-being.

Fighting Hunger and Poverty

Food For Free: Improving access to healthy food within the greater Boston area

Food For Free works tirelessly to improve access to fresh, healthy food for individuals and families facing food insecurity in the Boston area. Their innovative programs and partnerships ensure that vulnerable populations have the nourishment they need to thrive.

Championing Equality, Equity, Inclusion

Change Labs: Fostering Native American entrepreneurship for the Navajo and Hopi Nations

Change Labs empowers Native American entrepreneurs in the Navajo and Hopi Nations by providing resources, training, and mentorship. Their work supports economic development, cultural preservation, and community resilience.

Promoting Education

SMASH: Building a strong, diverse, and socially conscious tech workforce

SMASH (Summer Math and Science Honors Academy) is committed to building a diverse and socially conscious tech workforce by providing rigorous STEM education and leadership development opportunities to underrepresented students. Their programs empower young people to pursue careers in technology and make a positive impact on the world.

Advancing Environmental Sustainability

Mangrove Action Project: Protecting the world’s mangrove forests

The Mangrove Action Project works to protect and restore mangrove forests around the world, recognizing their critical role in coastal ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, and climate change mitigation. Their community-based approach empowers local communities to become stewards of these vital resources.

Promoting A Safer Internet

Child Rescue Coalition: Protecting innocence through technology

The Child Rescue Coalition develops and utilizes technology to protect children from online sexual abuse and exploitation. Their innovative tools and training programs help law enforcement agencies and other organizations identify and rescue victims of child sexual abuse.

Innovation Award

Crisis Tracker: Mapping violence in Central Africa

Crisis Tracker uses technology to map and monitor violence in Central Africa, providing real-time information to humanitarian organizations, policymakers, and the public. Their data-driven approach helps to inform interventions, prevent further violence, and protect vulnerable populations.

Outstanding Volunteer

Kayla Abramowitz, Chief Kid Officer of Kayla Cares 4 Kids: Collecting and donating items for kids in hospitals

Kayla Abramowitz, the young founder of Kayla Cares 4 Kids, collects and donates entertainment and educational items to children in hospitals, providing comfort and distraction during their stays. Her dedication to helping other children is an inspiration.

.ORG Newcomer of The Year

Arwa Damon, President & Co-founder of INARA: Life-altering medical care for children from conflict areas who have catastrophic injuries or illnesses

INARA (International Network for Aid, Relief and Assistance) provides life-altering medical care to children from conflict areas who have suffered catastrophic injuries or illnesses. Their work gives hope and healing to children who have been affected by war and violence.

.ORG of The Year

Days for Girls International: Masks4Millions & Periods Don’t Pause for Pandemics

Days for Girls International’s comprehensive response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the Masks4Millions initiative and continued support for menstrual health management, earned them the prestigious .ORG of the Year award. Their dedication to serving vulnerable communities during a time of crisis is a testament to their unwavering commitment.

Celebrating the .ORG Community

The 2020 .ORG Impact Awards highlight the vital role that .ORG organizations play in addressing pressing global challenges. From combating the coronavirus to promoting education and protecting the environment, these organizations are making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities around the world. The Public Interest Registry is proud to support and celebrate their impactful work.

The .ORG domain is more than just a website address; it represents a commitment to serving the public good. .ORG organizations are driven by purpose, not profit, and they are dedicated to creating a better future for all. The .ORG Impact Awards serve as a reminder of the power of collective action and the importance of supporting organizations that are working to make a positive difference.

These organizations inspire us all to get involved and contribute to creating a more just and equitable world. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading awareness, we can all play a role in supporting the vital work of .ORG organizations.

Learn more about the .ORG Impact Awards and the Public Interest Registry at pir.org. Explore the websites of the award recipients to discover how you can support their missions and contribute to their impactful work. Together, we can build a brighter future for all.