This year’s YMCA Peace Medal Ceremony will be taking place Thursday, November 20 at 12:30 p.m. at the Health, Fitness and Aquatics facility at in Owen Sound at 700 10th Street East.
The prestigious YMCA Peace Medal honoursA people of all ages who are helping to build better communities by exemplifying the values of PEACE. The YMCA Peace Medal was developed in 1987 by the International Committee at the YMCA of Fredericton. That year, this committee of volunteers and staff was tasked with developing Peace Week support materials for YMCAs across the country. The YMCA Peace Medal is presented to individuals or groups who, without any special resources, demonstrate a commitment to the values of PEACE through contributions made within their local, national or global community. Peacemakers are recognized for promoting and inspiring Participation, Empathy, Advocacy, Community and Empowerment. The presentation takes place yearly during YMCA Peace Week.
In 2024, the YMCA Peace Medal was awarded to Joan John and Barb Vandenbor for their outstanding work fostering inclusion, compassion, and belonging in Grey and Bruce Counties. Through their dedication to supporting marginalized groups, youth, and individuals experiencing homelessness, Joan and Barb exemplify how leadership and service create stronger, more connected communities.
YMCA Peace Week takes place from November 16th – 22nd this year. During this week, the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce, together with YMCAs across Canada, celebrates the presence of peace in communities, and reflects on the peace-building work that happens all year, both inside and outside the YMCA.
YMCA Peace Week invites people of all ages to reflect on peace, to talk, and to take action, individually and with others.
