Mahwah College Honors Woman Who Helps Abused Women And Children

MAHWAH, NJ — Fraidy Reiss was just 19 when her family arranged her marriage to a man.

The man was violent toward Reiss. For 12 years, she was trapped. Eventually, she got out and attended Rutgers University. She graduated as valedictorian at 32.

Reiss used her experiences to help young girls and women escape from violent marriages. It is for that work she was named the top honoree of the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award administered by Ramapo College of New Jersey.

Reiss founded Unchained At Last to help women around the world and New Jersey to escape forced marriages and rebuild their lives. The organization has helped more than 500 women since its founding.

The late Russ Berrie established the awards in 1997, which are hosted by Ramapo College of New Jersey. They honor New Jersey residents whose community service and charitable contributions make a substantial impact on others' lives.

Reiss helped draft a bill that Governor Phil Murphy signed into law in June 2018 that made New Jersey the second state to prohibit child marriage.

Reiss received $50,000 for being named the top honoree. Two second-place honorees each received $25,000. Seven others received $7,500.

Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com