The Andre Sobel Essay Award

Young people who are diagnosed with a life threatening illness are set off on a journey that is different from the adult experience. For a young person, one's peers are the most important citizens of their world, and a painful consequence of illness can be isolation from these friends, a loss which is among the harshest to bear. They are not forgotten, but the relationships with friends become strained and many will fall silent, feeling a loss of words or afraid to say the wrong thing. In recognition of Andre's struggle with this challenge (and that happens all too often for others), the Andre Sobel River of Life Foundation offers an annual Essay Award around this topic for young survivors of catastrophic illness. The winning essays ultimately will be published in a book to provide a road map that helps young people communicate and “be” in this uncharted territory. The winners’ cash awards are to be used in any way the recipients choose. We hope this gift will help to fulfill a cherished desire as they proceed with their lives.

2008 Award Rules and Guidelines (coming soon)

We apologize for the delay. Rules and Guidelines are expected to be available by mid- to late-April. Thank you for your patience.

You may provide us with your name and email address to info@andreriveroflife.org, and we will include you on an email that will notify interested applicants when the rules and guidelines become available. No phone calls, please.

2007 Andre Sobel Awards

2006 Andre Sobel Awards

2005 Andre Sobel Awards

2004 Andre Sobel Awards

2003 Andre Sobel Awards

2002 Andre Sobel Awards

2001 Andre Sobel Awards

2000 Inaugural Andre Sobel Awards


If you are interested in becoming a sponsor of the Andre Sobel Award, please email info@andreriveroflife.org for more information.