Call for Nominations: YMCA Peace Medal to Be Awarded This November
From local advocates to global changemakers, the YMCA Peace Medal honours those building stronger communities — nominations now open.
The YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce is seeking nominations for its annual Peace Medal, an award that recognizes individuals or groups working to build stronger, more inclusive communities.
The YMCA Peace Medal honours people who embody the values of participation, empathy, advocacy, community, and empowerment. According to the YMCA, nominees need not hold wealth, status, or position — the award is meant to highlight those who, through everyday actions, foster peace locally or globally.
Residents can submit nominations online at ymcaowensound.on.ca/peace-week or pick up a nomination package at the YMCA Health, Fitness & Aquatics facility. The deadline is Friday, October 18.
The Peace Medal tradition began in 1987 with the YMCA of Fredericton. Since then, YMCAs across Canada have presented the award during Peace Week, held this year from November 16 to 23.
Locally, the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce has honoured 28 individuals and 13 groups to date, including 2024 recipients Joan John and Barb Vandenbor, recognized for their work fostering inclusion and compassion across Grey and Bruce counties.
Other past honourees include the late restaurateur Sharif Rahman, posthumously awarded in 2023 for his community impact, as well as Ann Vos (2012), Joan Beecroft (2014), Colleen Purdon (2015), and The Ambassador Group (2017).
The 2025 Peace Medal will be presented during YMCA Peace Week in November, alongside national celebrations at YMCAs across Canada.
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