September 18, 2006 - Toronto -- The YMCA of Greater Toronto is accepting nominations for the 19th Annual YMCA Peace Medallion.  The award recognizes individuals who have shown a commitment to peace through personal contributions made within their community. Peace Medallions will be awarded in communities across the GTA during YMCA World Peace Week, November 18 – 25, 2006.

“The recipient of the YMCA Peace Medal is a tremendous inspiration and they show how any one of us can improve the quality of life in a community, either locally, nationally or internationally.  They exemplify YMCA World Peace Week and the positive impact a person can make,” says Scott Haldane, President and CEO YMCA of Greater Toronto.  “Because of them, our community and the lives they touch are so much richer.”

We honour individuals who are peacemakers, working in a volunteer capacity towards peaceful solutions to violence, conflict, discrimination and injustice; who have had a significant impact on the lives of others in their community, but without any special recognition or special resources. Past recipients come from all walks of life yet they are united in their active commitment to creating a culture of peace.

CRITERIA:
We are seeking individuals who:

• Find peaceful solutions to violence, conflict, discrimination and injustice
• Make a difference by working quietly without any special recognition (financial, status or otherwise) to create a culture of peace
• Volunteer their time and work without any special resources (financial, status or otherwise) to create a culture of peace
• Enhance the lives of people in their community and around the world by creating peaceful environments

This award is intended to acknowledge time and effort contributed on a voluntary basis.  Services performed during the normal course of professional or business duties are not eligible for recognition. 

To nominate a Peacemaker and to download a Peace Medallion Nomination Form.

The YMCA of Greater Toronto is a charity offering opportunities for personal growth, community involvement and leadership.  As a values-based charity working in 200 locations throughout the GTA, the YMCA builds strong kids, strong families and strong communities.  The YMCA of Greater Toronto works with more than 400,000 men, women, children, and families of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, in all stages of life and involves  5,000 volunteers and enjoys the support of  12,000 donors.  The YMCA offers many diverse programs including: Child Care; Employment Programs; Newcomer Programs; Health, Fitness & Recreation; Camping & Outdoor Education; Family Support; Youth Outreach & Intervention; Education & Essential Skills Development; and International Development.