YMCA Peace Week will take place this year from November 18th to the 25th. The week is a time to celebrate the presence of peace in our communities, and reflect on the peace-building work that happens all year both inside and outside the YMCA.
“We cannot expect to live in a world of peace if we are unable to live in peace with those close to us – even those who differ from us….” – YMCA Statement on Peace
In 2000, the YMCA began developing a partnership with YMCA Nicaragua. The YMCA’s Kim Jaye told us more about what that partnership means.
YMCA Peace Week sheds light on the ongoing need to nurture peace, a mission now more crucial than ever. The persisting challenges posed by COVID-19 and the pressing demands for diversity, equity, and inclusion urge us to collectively reevaluate our past and envision our future, both as individuals and as communities.
Kim told us how they plan to celebrate Peace Week locally this year.
Shop for Peace will also return this year, thanks to their partnership with Ten Thousand Villages.
As part of YMCA Peace Week, YMCAs across Canada present the YMCA Peace Medal to individuals or groups who, without any special resources, status, wealth, or position, demonstrate a commitment to the values of P-E-A-C-E through contributions made within their local, national, or global community.
This year, Peace Medal nominations will close on October 20th.
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond to build community?
Jaye told us how the nomination process works.
Jaye told us this is your chance to shine the light on some outstanding people in our community.
YMCA Peace Medal winners demonstrate a commitment to the values of P-E-A-C-E
Those values are Participation, Empathy, Advocacy, Community and Empowerment, and Kim shared just who is eligible.
Since 1987, more than 1,900 individuals and groups across Canada have been recognized for their peacebuilding work with YMCA Peace Medals.
If you know a group or someone who should be recognized with a Peace Medal, you can nominate online at YMCA 2023 Peace Medal Nominations – YMCA Northumberland (ymcanrt.org) or reach out to Kim Jaye directly at YMCA Cobourg: kim.jaye@nrt.ymca.ca or by phone at 905-396-2491.
Written by Joseph Goden
