Chaz Ebert launches national awards to honor acts of forgiveness, empathy, compassion and kindness as Siskel & Ebert 50th anniversary approaches | Chaz’s diary

FECK Awards spotlight the power of everyday heroes and bold visionaries who uplift humanity through action, proving that compassion and kindness are not just ideals, but powerful forces that reshape lives and communities.

Chicago (October 15, 2025) – Chaz Ebert, CEO of RogerEbert.com, humanitarian, film producer and wife of the late Pulitzer Prize winner Roger Ebert, today announced that nominations are officially open for the inaugural FECK Awards, a groundbreaking new initiative celebrating individuals and organizations who uplift humanity through forgiveness, empathy, compassion and kindness. Inspired by her 2024 book, It’s time to give a helping hand: uplifting humanity through forgiveness, empathy, compassion and kindnessthe FECK Awards bring to life Ebert’s vision of spotlighting those who act with courage, compassion and heart to heal divisions and spark waves of kindness in their communities.

The announcement comes as Chicago prepares to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Siskel & Ebert, the iconic film review show that helped define modern cinematic discourse. “It’s amazing to see how Roger and Gene’s legacy continues to inspire,” said Chaz Ebert. “Through cinema, we have learned to see the world through the eyes of others. The FECK Awards carry the same spirit, highlighting people who act with empathy, forgiveness, compassion and kindness in everyday life.”

Applications are now open to individuals and organizations in the United States and Canada (excluding Quebec), including nonprofits, businesses, community groups, and cultural institutions. One person or organization will be honored in each of the four FECK categories: Forgiveness, Empathy, Compassion and Kindness.

Nominations can be made online at giveafeck.com/awards through December 1, 2025. Entrants will provide contact information, select a FECK category, and share a brief description of how their nominee embodies one or more FECK principles. Photos and/or a short video can also be submitted. Winners will be honored on April 4, 2026, a day previously celebrated as Day4Empathy.

“In a time of deep division, we need to be reminded of what is possible,” Ebert said. “These awards are my love letter to those who show, through action, that humanity still matters, that kindness always wins, and that when we give a FECK, we can change the world.”

For more details and to submit a nomination, visit giveafeck.com/awards.

For sponsors interested in supporting the FECK Awards, please contact info@giveafeck.com to learn more.