We cannot expect to live in a world of peace if we are unable to live in peace with those close to us – even those who differ from us….
YMCA Statement on Peace
YMCA Peace Week is a time when we celebrate the presence of peace in our communities, and reflect on the peace-building work that happens all year both inside and outside the YMCA.
YMCA Peace Week calls people to build community and act for peace. When we act for peace, together we build stronger and healthier communities.
YMCA Peace Medal Recipients
Each year, YMCAs across Canada celebrate acts of peace by recognizing individuals and groups who, without any special resources, status, wealth or position, have demonstrated a commitment to building peace within their community or communities elsewhere in the world. During YMCA Peace Week, which will take place from November 19-25, 2023, local peacemakers will receive special recognition.
Click on the images below to view the 2023 YMCA Peace Medal Recipients!
North Bay
Johanne Brousseau (Adult)
Johanne Brousseau (Adult)
November 19 to 25, 2023 is YMCA Peace Week. This is a time when YMCAs across Canada present the YMCA Peace Medal to individuals or groups who, without any special resources, status, wealth, or position, demonstrate a commitment to the values of P-E-A-C-E through contributions made within their local, national, or global community.
This year in North Bay, the medal was presented to Johanne Brousseau. Johanne has been a long time YMCA supporter, going back to her days as a lifeguard and swimming instructor. She has continued to serve as a board member, chair of the finance committee and is a strong supporter of a myriad of events. As an avid swimmer, Johanne saw an opportunity, through swimming, to develop a fundraising event called “Tour de Trout”. Since the inception of the program, it has become an annual event that has grown in stature as well as an ever-growing fundraiser to Y programs.
Johanne is a shining example of living the values of the peace. In addition to all the above, Johanne has been a hands-on supporter of programs for children and adults with disabilities. Her work is an inspiration to not only those directly involved, but to their families as well.
The YMCA of Northeastern Ontario is grateful for the role community builders like Johanne play in our region and are thrilled to celebrate her.
Sudbury
Gurpreet Singh Broca (Adult)
Gurpreet Singh Broca (Adult)
November 19 to 25, 2023 is YMCA Peace Week. This is a time when YMCAs across Canada present the YMCA Peace Medal to individuals or groups who, without any special resources, status, wealth, or position, demonstrate a commitment to the values of P-E-A-C-E through contributions made within their local, national, or global community.
This year, in Sudbury, the medal was presented to Gurpreet Singh Broca. At the age of 26, Gurpreet a newcomer to Canada and Sudbury, has already done so much to support Community Building within Greater Sudbury, with a specific focus on Cultural Diversity and Inclusion.
Gurpreet says his desire to support Peace through his efforts of cultural inclusion are inspired by his parents who instilled upon him a strong sentimental value of “Maanas Ki Jaat Sabe Ek Pehchanbo”, which stems from his Sikh faith. This is an approximate translation of the Punjabi script which means “Considering everyone as one”.
With this strong belief that everyone matters, and everyone is important, Gurpreet plays active roles on the Greater Sudbury Police Services Diversity Council, he is on the Board of the Chamber of Commerce, has been active in the Youth Advisory Committee to the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario, he is also on the board of the India Canada Association and volunteers at Cambrian College and the Sudbury Multicultural Folk Arts association.
He credits his role with the TD Ready Commitment Network, as a Northern Ontario Ambassador which works to support charities and non-profits in the region as his launch pad into community development. Further, he recalls that his first work resume was built with support from the YMCA Employment Services and as such he understands the impact of these service agencies and wants to do his part to give back.
The YMCA of Northeastern Ontario is grateful for the role community builders like Gurpreet play in our region and are thrilled to celebrate him.