If you met JJ Greenberg, then chances are you came away inspired by his extraordinary commitment to Jewish philanthropy and his ability to take the time to collaborate, listen, empathize and come up with ideas that were new, interesting and eminently workable.

A traffic accident in Israel in 2002 took his life when he was just 36. His family, friends, and colleagues honored him by endowing the JJ Greenberg Memorial Award, which JFN has given since 2004 to an outstanding young foundation professional. Like JJ, each recipient has exemplified through words and deeds the highest of Jewish values and the relentless pursuit of excellence in all aspects of life. The next winner will be announced Monday at the JFN annual conference in Miami Beach.

Conference attendees will receive a booklet with short essays from past recipients describing what JJ's life and work means to them. Not all of them met JJ, but all know his legacy has undoubtedly influenced their work. You can read them, along with reflections from JJ's parents, Blu and Rabbi Irving "Yitz" Greenberg here.