Robert D. Stillman Dignity Awards

Robert D. Stillman’s dedication, kindness, and contagious joy left a defining legacy at Global Fund for Children. The Dignity Awards honor Bob’s commitment to improving the lives of the children and youth who are most in need.

Bob Stillman’s legacy

From 2002 to 2006, Bob served as Chair of GFC’s Board of Directors, where he stewarded GFC’s mission with warmth and dedication. Bob’s tenure as Chair was a time of significant growth for the organization, propelling GFC to new heights. He was passionate about strengthening social protection networks and generating economic opportunity for children, particularly for orphaned children, street-based children, and those experiencing homelessness. Bob passed away on August 4, 2019. In a heartfelt tribute to their friend and colleague, GFC Founder Maya Ajmera and former Managing Director Greg Fields remembered Bob for his good humor and steadfast faith in “doing the right thing for the right reasons.”

About the awards

Established in 2020, the Robert D. Stillman Dignity Awards honor organizations responding to the risks and challenges that affect the wellbeing of children and youth. Specifically, these awards recognize organizations that advance the dignity of young people by:

Providing critical services, such as shelter, refuge, and humanitarian aid;
Fostering economic empowerment to break the trap of intergenerational poverty; and/or
Promoting welcoming communities through social inclusion programs.

The Robert D. Stillman Dignity Awards have been made possible thanks to the generous contributions of Bob’s family and friends.

About the 2025 winner

Autism Voice, this year’s Dignity Award winner, supports Black and global-majority families facing unique challenges in accessing autism services in South London. Recognizing that cultural differences, language barriers, and a lack of inclusive spaces meant that many autistic children and their families were not receiving the care they deserved, Autism Voice set out to ensure that families had access to autism services that reflected their lived experiences.

Through their programs such as social clubs, craft-making courses, and family support workshops, Autism Voice helps autistic children and young people express themselves freely, build social skills, and gain a sense of belonging. The organization is also bridging gaps in the autism care field by advocating for more inclusive practices and working with schools and healthcare professionals. Additionally, Autism Voice offers peer support groups, wellbeing workshops, and family training sessions for families and caregivers of autistic children to help build knowledge, confidence, and strong networks of care.