Last week, on November 18th, the 2009 YMCA Calgary Peace Medals were awarded to eight very worthy recipients, and I got to attend.
I was one of four students representing my school for our nomination for the award. We were amoung 39 outstanding nominees, in eight categories. The YMCA Peace Medals give a chance to recognize the fabulous effort and love of numerous individuals, organizations and teams. It was truly humbling, and a great honour, to be amoung so many people who have not only reached out to their community, but have reached out to countries all over the world.
The eight recipients, including YAA and CYFC’s very own Sheena (we’re sooo proud of you!!!!), have worked tireously and selflessly to bring peace, joy and justice to our world, and they all deserve to recognized.
Here are the recipients:
For “Community Individual”, Jean Johnson, for transforming Piitoayis Family School, a culturally based school that serves a diverse group of aboriginal students.
For “International Individual”, Tiffany Fontaine, founder of Fontaine Children’s Charity Foundation, helping to take boys in Mozambique off the streets.
For “International Youth”, our friend Sheena Parris, who has been involved deeply in Centennial’s Social Justice Club and has taught others about social justice and peace.
For “YMCA Staff”, Judi Rich, for personifying peace in every way.
For “International Group”, Operation Eyesight Universal and Pat Fergusen, for restoring eyesight to millions of the world’s people in poverty.
For “Humanitarian”, Dr. Chris Brooks, for moving to South Africa to treat patients in Malawi.
For “Community Group”, Aboriginal and Diversity Learning Support Advisors, for creating a positive cultural identity for aboriginal students for over 15 years.
For “Community Youth”, Bishop O’Byrne Leadership Class, for taking an active role in making a difference in the community with more than 20 projects.
To find out more about the YMCA Peace Medals, or to read the stories of the recipients and nominees click here!