I am grateful to be receiving the Pathfinders to Peace Award alongside Marc Ecko, Mira Sorvino and Morgan Freeman. I would like to thank you all for the various forms of support you have provided allowing us all to "Make A Local Difference:.

Since 1995 the Shinnyo-en Foundation has sought to support and further the activities of others who share their core values of service as a way of life. They believe that awareness of the interconnectedness of all the people of the world helps individuals bring about greater peace in their own lives, and in the lives of their families, their communities and the world.

The Foundation provides grants to an array of organizations, ranging from small schools and grass-roots community organizations to national nonprofits and associations of school districts. In addition, the Foundation convenes many events throughout the United States to celebrate the ideas of peace and harmony and to educate individuals, organizations and communities about values and their importance in daily life.

In connection with the Canadian Association of New York, which Brett is on the Board of, Acorn Charities helped raise approximately $150,000 for Cancer Research at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.

Acorn raised thousands of dollars for the South Fork Breast Cancer Coalition at its charity auctions and raffles at Bridgehampton Polo. Thanks to Strategic Group for their support in making this possible.

Acorn and event sponsor Moet Hennesey's 10 Cane Rum hosted a rooftop mojito party to benefit cancer research.