On March 19, 2016, NPDF Founder and Executive Director received the prestigious “2016 Gift of Life International Humanitarian Award” at the Garden City Hotel, Garden City, New York
Joe was recognized for his humanitarian efforts on the “Operation Kids” program that helped arrange lifesaving operations for critically ill children worldwide.
In addition, New York State Senator Martin J. Golden presented Joe with an official “Proclamation” which similarly recognized his lifelong humanitarian achievements.
This marks the second time in the last six months that Joe has been recognized for his efforts on Operation Kids. In August 2015, Joe was recognized by Pope Francis at the Vatican in Rome.
At this gala event, Joe had the distinct privilege to meet Anastacia, a Russian teenager, who recently underwent heart surgery and through the efforts of the Gift of Life will now live a long happy life.