YMCA Peace Medal

Nominees must meet criteria 

• The actions of the nominee have demonstrated their commitment to the advancement of peace or the promotion of non-violence within the family, the community, our nation or internationally. 

• The nominee has developed, on their own or with others, a program or activity that contributes to a safe/non-violent community and promotes social justice and community cohesion. 

• The actions of the nominee as a ‘peacemaker’ have motivated the local community and demonstrated ways to live and promote peace and harmony in an increasingly diverse society. 

• The nominee’s activities must be non-partisan. Nominations are not eligible where the primary purpose or effect of the activities is to support or oppose a political party or candidate for public office, including campaigning, partisan fundraising, endorsements, or voter influence. 

• Nominees in paid or formal leadership roles may be considered, with preference given to contributions beyond their core responsibilities. 

Eligible Civic Engagement: Non-partisan advocacy aligned with the principles of peace, human rights, inclusion, and community cohesion remains eligible. Activities whose primary purpose or effect is partisan political advancement, violence, or the escalation of conflict or division within the community are not eligible. 

For International nominees only: Activities must primarily benefit people living in other countries, outside Canada. 

Nominations must meet all outlined criteria to be considered. All qualifying nominees will be contacted by the YMCA.

Submit the following materials with your online application below.

Please attach a letter of recommendation and relevant materials, articles or photos to your online nomination that you feel will strengthen your submission. 

• Background - Information about the history of this individual or group or their previous experience. 

• Activities - Describe their peace-building initiative(s) from the past two years. What were the specific roles and responsibilities of the person or group you are nominating? Is the nominee paid for their peace-making work? If yes, please describe how their contribution goes above and beyond their formal role. 

• Impact - How have these activities helped to build peace and change people’s lives? Please include measurable results where possible, such as:

  • Number of people directly impacted

  • Number of people informed or educated

  • Number of volunteers involved

  • Number of volunteer hours contributed