#USA #Miami #Sesame Street #Elevate Prize #Sal Perez

Sesame Street Wins Elevate Prize Catalyst Award

The iconic children's program, Sesame Street, has received the prestigious Elevate Prize Catalyst Award for its enduring commitment to making a transformative impact on generations of children worldwide. This accolade, presented by the Elevate Prize Foundation during its Third Annual Make Good Famous Summit, celebrates the show's legacy of compassion, kindness, and educational excellence.

A Well-Deserved Honor

On May 14, 2025, Sal Perez, the Executive Producer of Sesame Street, accepted the award on behalf of the beloved characters, including Ernie and Bert. He expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, "This award will help sustain Sesame Workshop's support for children and families facing some of the toughest challenges, whether that’s struggling with mental health, experiencing homelessness, or having a parent struggling with addiction."

The Elevate Prize Foundation awards individuals and organizations that inspire global social action through influential storytelling. In addition to the honor, Sesame Workshop received $250,000 in unrestricted funding to further its mission of helping children grow smarter, stronger, and kinder.

Responding to Mental Health Needs

Amidst rising mental health challenges among children, with estimates indicating that 1 in 5 children are affected, the work of Sesame Street is more critical than ever. Perez highlighted the importance of addressing these needs, especially during Mental Health Awareness Month. The show not only entertains but also provides children with the tools to understand and navigate their emotions effectively.

Looking Ahead: A New Season

During the award presentation, Perez also announced exciting news for fans: the production of the 56th season of Sesame Street. This season promises a reimagined format, introducing innovative segments that invite children to engage beyond the screen. The new approach aims to foster creativity and play, allowing children to visualize themselves in the world of Sesame Street, interacting with their favorite characters.

"We’re committed to the idea of Sesame Street being a radical experiment," Perez stated, emphasizing the ethos driving the show's evolution. Alongside the classic beloved segments, the new season will feature an all-new animated segment showcasing never-before-seen locations, along with celebrity guest appearances to captivate and entertain parents and caregivers alike.

A Platform for Change

The Elevate Prize Catalyst Award serves to highlight the fundamental role of cultural storytelling in enacting change. Carolina García Jayaram, CEO of the Elevate Prize Foundation, elaborated on the significance of Sesame Street's work: "Without programs like this, we risk a generation of children growing up without a shared moral compass. By investing in such storytelling, we work towards creating informed, emotionally healthy society leaders."

The Make Good Famous Summit brought together leaders, activists, and changemakers dedicated to reshaping philanthropy and community engagement. Notable speakers included philanthropist Abigail Disney, CEOs from diverse foundations, and creators championing social issues. These discussions centered on culture's profound influence and the necessity of innovative approaches to social challenges.

Conclusion

The Elevate Prize Foundation remains committed to supporting changemakers who tackle pressing issues with creativity and determination. With sesame street's rich tradition of education and emotional support, this award not only honors the past but also paves the way for future contributions to society. As Sesame Workshop continues its mission, it assures fans that the show will remain a cherished resource for generations to come, nurturing the values of empathy and resilience in all children. For more information on the Elevate Prize Foundation's initiatives, visit their website and follow them on social platforms.