Last week, we reported on Roosevelt Islander Jim Luce’s Goddess Artemis Award for his work founding and managing Orphans International Worldwide. But the lifetime achievement he won just two days later was a surprise, and it came with a signed letter from President Joe Biden.
by David Stone
The Roosevelt Island Daily News
Luce accepted the Artemis Award in a ceremony in the U.S. Capital Rayburn Building in Washington D.C. It was granted by the European American Women’s Council (EAWC) on December 14th.
“Roosevelt Island resident Jim Luce will be presented with the Artemis Award for his exceptional quarter-century dedication to Orphans International Worldwide, an organization he founded inspired by his adopted Indonesian infant son and child psychologist mother….”
European American Women’s Council
The volunteer work for which Luce is being recognized was seeded and plotted out from here on Roosevelt Island. These are signature achievements unlike any others in our community.
We’ve been honored to report on Luce’s work many times at The Daily, and this was well deserved. But there was more to come.
A Lifetime Achievement Award from President Biden
“The American story depends not on any one of us, not on some of us, but on all of us,” the President wrote. “I congratulate you on taking it upon yourself to contribute to the public good, and I’m proud to present you with the President’s Lifetime Achievement award in recognition of your 4,000 hours of service to this great Nation.”
“On behalf of the American people, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to you for your volunteer leadership,” it concluded, “and I encourage you to continue to answer the call to serve. The country is counting on you.”
About Orphans International Worldwide
Building Bright Futures, One Smile at a Time: Introducing Orphans International Worldwide!
Imagine a world where every child, no matter their circumstances, has the chance to thrive. A world filled with laughter, learning, and endless possibilities. That’s the vision that drives Orphans International Worldwide (OIWW), a beacon of hope for orphaned and abandoned children around the globe.
Rooted in compassion, fueled by action: Founded in 1999 by Jim Luce, OIWW is more than just an organization – it’s a family. Inspired by his own adopted son and driven by a deep commitment to global citizenship, Jim built a network of loving homes where vulnerable children can find not just shelter, but a nurturing environment to blossom.
Homes, not institutions: Forget cold, sterile orphanages. OIWW homes are havens of warmth and individuality, bursting with color, love, and the kind of care that comes from the heart. Each child is treated with respect and dignity, their unique talents and dreams cherished and nurtured.
Education is the key: OIWW believes that education is the ladder to a brighter future. That’s why children in their care receive top-notch schooling, from foundational literacy and numeracy to creative expression and critical thinking skills. They’re encouraged to explore their passions, whether it’s art, music, sports, or anything else that sparks their curiosity.
Global citizens in the making: OIWW fosters a sense of community that transcends borders. Children learn about different cultures, languages, and traditions, embracing the beauty of diversity and understanding their place as global citizens. This prepares them not just for academic success, but for meaningful lives filled with empathy and understanding.
A ripple effect of hope: The impact of OIWW extends far beyond the walls of its homes. By empowering children, they empower communities. Educated young adults become teachers, doctors, entrepreneurs, and leaders, driving positive change in their own right.
Join the movement: You, too, can be a part of this incredible journey. OIWW relies on the generosity of individuals and organizations to continue its mission. Whether it’s through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading the word, every contribution makes a difference.
So, let’s paint the world a little brighter, one smile at a time. Visit OIWW’s website today and discover how you can help build a future where every child has the chance to shine.
Remember, even the smallest act of kindness can have a ripple effect that changes the world. Together, we can ensure that every child, regardless of their past, has the opportunity to write a beautiful story for their future.
The Line That Didn’t Land
I stood in the back of Good Shepherd Chapel on the evening of April 15, 2026, at the Steam Plant Demolition Town Hall, watching people adjust scarves and jackets before the meeting began. Benjamin Jones, President and CEO of RIOC, thanked us for attending and, without a pause, said he was “pleased to host tonight’s town hall on the city’s demolition of its steam plant.” The demolition, in other words, was not up for discussion.
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