Nominations Open for 2026 YMCA Peace Medal in Peterborough Region

By Scott Arnold

Know someone who quietly makes Peterborough a more welcoming and inclusive place? The YMCA is looking for nominations for its 2026 Peace Medal.

The YMCA Peace Medal recognizes individuals making a difference by promoting inclusion, understanding, belonging and positive change in their communities. (photo courtesy of the YMCA of Central East Ontario, Balsillie Family Branch)

The YMCA of Central East Ontario is looking for people in the Peterborough region who are making a difference in their community, often without seeking recognition for it themselves.

Nominations are now open for the 2026 YMCA Peace Medal, which recognizes individuals who demonstrate a meaningful commitment to building peace through actions that promote inclusion, understanding, belonging and positive social change.

The YMCA is encouraging community members, organizations and local leaders to nominate someone who helps break down barriers, creates opportunities for others or works to build a more connected community.

“Building stronger communities often requires significant personal sacrifice. Across our communities, there are many individuals who dedicate themselves to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for others,” says Cindy Mytruk, Manager of Partnerships, Inclusion and Engagement. “The YMCA Peace Medal is an opportunity to recognize the impact these individuals have on the lives of those around them and to help amplify the important work and messages they bring forward.”

Nominations must be submitted by Sunday, October 18th at 11pm.

Nominations can be made through the YMCA of Central East Ontario’s online Peace Medal nomination form, available through ymcaofceo.ca. Paper nomination forms and verbal nominations by phone are also available upon request by contacting the YMCA.

The selected recipient will be honoured at a recognition ceremony in November, with the YMCA working with the recipient to determine the date, time and location.

The YMCA Peace Medal is awarded annually across Canada to individuals who, without special resources, status or authority, demonstrate a commitment to peacebuilding and strengthening their communities.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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