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Ava Costa '28 and Giuliana Demma '28 Named Russ Berrie Making a Difference Honorees

Two Ranney School students are being honored as 2026 Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award Honorees: Ava Costa ‘28 and Giuliana Demma ‘28. 

Established in 1997 by the late Russell Berrie, the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award honors New Jersey residents whose outstanding community service and heroic acts have made a substantial impact on the lives of others.

The Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award is a signature program of the Russell Berrie Foundation, which carries out Russ Berrie’s legacy and philanthropy by continuing to recognize New Jerseyans who are creating positive change in their communities. The Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award is managed by Ramapo College of New Jersey.

This year marks the 30th anniversary and the final year of the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award.
Ava Costa is honored for creating Arturo Healing Hearts. ““I started Arturo Healing Hearts because I saw how powerful music could be beyond performance; how it can comfort, connect, and reach people during some of the hardest moments of their lives,” said Ava. “What began as something personal has grown into a community of students who believe their music can serve a greater purpose. Being honored for this work is incredibly meaningful, not just for me, but for every young musician who has chosen to use their talent to make a difference.”

Giuliana Demma is honored for creating G’s Giving Gowns. She said, “Receiving this award is a reminder of why I started G’s Giving Gowns at age 11. Watching my cousin Giada navigate her battle with medulloblastoma changed my life forever. It showed me that while doctors treat the illness, we have to care for the child’s spirit. Hospital gowns can feel cold and clinical, but every child deserves to feel like themselves. That’s why I focus on customizing gowns in fun vibrant patterns and making shirts port accessible so that treatment can happen without taking away a child's comfort or dignity. It’s about more than just clothing; it’s about restoring confidence in their toughest moments.” 

“I am so grateful for the support of my community as I continue this mission,” said Giuliana. “To the families in 47 states and 9 countries who have let me be a small part of your journey: thank you for teaching me what true bravery looks like. I look forward to continuing this work and showing that we all have the power to make a difference.”
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Ranney School

235 Hope Road
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Tel. 732.542.4777
Our mission is to know and value every child, nurturing intellectual curiosity and confidence, and inspiring students to lead honorably, think creatively, and contribute meaningfully to society. 

We envision Ranney School as a nurturing learning community, in which families, faculty, alumni, and all of Ranney’s constituents collaborate to know and value every child, foster individual talents, sustain powerful connections between children and adults, and graduate resilient, globally-minded citizens.