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 2026 winner

Amuno Rural Hub, this year’s Dignity Award winner, works in rural Uganda to create opportunities for children and young people in underserved communities by ensuring they have not only access to quality education, but also the support systems they need to thrive. Through literacy and numeracy learning, life skills development, and community support, the organization is helping rural children build the confidence, knowledge, and practical skills they need for the future.

Children participating in reading groups. © Amuno Rural Hub

Looking ahead, Amuno Rural Hub has an ambitious vision: to build a permanent, community-owned center where rural children can learn, grow, and feel supported every day. The organization hopes to move from its current rented space to a land of its own, where it can expand classrooms, create reading and activity spaces, establish safe outdoor play areas, and build a digital learning corner for children and families.