Awards And Honors
2012: Gretchen Grad is awarded "Human Rights Champion Award" at the Annual 10th Congressional District Community Leadership Awards ceremony by Congressman Robert Dold.
2009: O.A.R. recognition and $2500 award
2009: Hamilton Ventures "Social Entrepreneur of the Year Award" to Founder Gretchen Grad, presented at the United Nations.
2008: University of Chicago Graduate School of Business Alumni Public Service Award to Founder Gretchen Grad in recognition of work with Hands of Peace
2004: The National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'i presented HOP with the David Kellum Award "for serving as a positive role model and providing service and encouragement to youth of all races."
2003: The Jim and Virginian Young Interfaith Award.
HOP is the most amazing experience I have had in my life. These two and a half weeks gave me hope for change! I believe if you can build love between small groups that are considered enemies, you can spread love in the whole nation. It is just that we can’t stop here. This is only the beginning for a new future.
Amir, 2011 participant