2021 YMCA of SWO Peace Medal Recipients Announced 

YMCA Peace Week logo with multi-coloured globe.

Each year, the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario honours local Peacemakers with a YMCA Peace Medal at several community events across the region. While we are unable to host an in-person ceremony this year, we are still excited to recognize and celebrate inspiring community members across our association! 

YMCA Peace Medals are presented 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. 

Since 1987, more than 1,900 individuals and groups across Canada have been recognized for their peacebuilding work with YMCA Peace Medals. When we award YMCA Peace Medals, we celebrate others’ contributions to peace. 

We are so excited and proud to present a YMCA Peace Medal to the following: 

Nolan Petch - Woodstock  

Brian Schoonjans, founder of Miracle Max's Minions - Lambton County 

Kevin Allen of Sarnia Blessings - Sarnia   

Myles Vanni - Sarnia   

Ginny Trepanier of Grace Café - St Thomas  

The INN of Windsor - Windsor 
 

“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