Dharma Drum Mountain Honors Life-Changing Contributions: Recycler-Philanthropist Zhao Wenzheng Wins Individual Award

By Central News Agency Reporter Wu Hsin-yun, Taipei, June 17

The Dharma Drum Mountain Humanities Foundation has announced the recipients of the 2026 'Caring for Life Awards.' The Liver Disease Prevention and Research Foundation received the 'Great Vow Award,' while recycler-philanthropist Zhao Wenzheng and firefighter hero Yu Taiyun were honored with individual awards. The award ceremony will take place on September 13.

Hosted by the Dharma Drum Mountain Humanities and Social Foundation, this year's 'Caring for Life Awards' saw nine organizations and individuals shortlisted. Chien Fu, Chairman of the Chiang Ching-kuo Foundation for International Scholarly Exchange, served as convener, with judges including Wu Nien-jen, Tseng Tsan-chin, Chang Chang-pang, Chen Wu-hsiung, Chen Wei-chao, Chen Ai-ling, Huang Hui-chen, and Venerable Guo-hui, Abbot of Dharma Drum Mountain. The winners were selected during today's final review meeting.

According to official records, the 'Liver Disease Prevention and Research Foundation' received the 'Great Vow Award' in the organizational category. The 'Compassion Award' went to Zhao Wenzheng, known as the 'recycler-philanthropist,' while the 'Wisdom Award' was awarded to firefighter hero Yu Taiyun.

Dharma Drum Mountain noted that the Liver Disease Prevention and Research Foundation has extended medical care beyond hospital walls, actively bringing healthcare and hope to the most underserved communities for over two decades—earning widespread acclaim and the 'Great Vow Award.'

On the individual front, Zhao Wenzheng, recipient of the 'Compassion Award,' has accumulated resources through recycling to support underprivileged students, transforming small acts of kindness into profound social impact. Yu Taiyun, winner of the 'Wisdom Award,' overcame severe injuries from the Kaohsiung gas explosion, endured painful rehabilitation, and courageously returned to frontline firefighting. His scars are no longer symbols of pain but 'medals of honor' representing his dedication to saving lives—making his recognition truly deserved.

Chien Fu stated that every nominee's deeds were deeply moving and exemplary for society, making the selection process emotionally challenging.

Venerable Guo-hui said the finalists demonstrated exceptional vitality and dedication, embodying the spirit of 'Facing It, Accepting It, Handling It, Letting It Go' advocated by Dharma Drum Mountain's founder, Master Sheng Yen.

The Caring for Life Awards Ceremony and Forum will be held at 1:30 PM on September 13 at the CPC Kuokang Hall in Taipei. The public is invited to attend and celebrate these quiet heroes who have made significant contributions. (Editor: Chen Ching-fang) 1150617

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