Over the past decade at Lambton College, Susan has focused on fostering community connections and supporting international students, particularly women, through various initiatives. She facilitated the establishment of the International Women’s Club (IWC), empowering female students by promoting cultural exchange, hosting community events, and providing safe spaces for connection and growth. Additionally, she launched the Business Professionals Club to help international students develop networking and professional skills, partnering with local businesses and the Chamber of Commerce. Susan also initiated the Sustainability Club, engaging students in environmental projects and community service, bringing global perspectives on sustainability to the campus.

Susan’s involvement in peacemaking stems from her enriching experiences with diverse students, whose resilience and positivity inspire her. Witnessing former students return to share their success stories fills her with pride, highlighting the positive impact of Susan’s initiatives. She encourages others to promote peace by actively engaging with international students and embracing the diversity they bring to the community.

As a founding member and first Faculty Advisor of the IWC, Susan played a crucial role in creating a supportive and empowering environment for women at the college. Her leadership transformed the club from an informal group into a well-structured organization with clear governance and defined values. Her emphasis on sustainability and structure equipped IWC members with valuable skills and experiences that extended beyond the college and even Canada.

Beyond her work with the IWC, Susan has demonstrated a strong commitment to community service and social impact, supporting initiatives that improve outcomes for those in crisis and build healthy communities. As a lead researcher, Susan has worked on projects aimed at bridging cultural gaps and empowering communities, including work with the Aamjiwnaang First Nations Community to address economic challenges, and efforts to connect newcomers with meaningful employment opportunities.

Through these various roles and initiatives, Susan has consistently worked to create more inclusive, supportive, and empowering environments for diverse groups. Her actions demonstrate a commitment to fostering peace through community building, education, and addressing systemic barriers. Susan’s inclusiveness and caring for improving the lives of those living in Sarnia-Lambton regardless of their origins highlights the YMCA values of caring and Inclusivity.

Greg Horton is a dedicated fitness professional and community advocate based in Strathroy. He is known for his unwavering passion for inclusivity. He founded The Casual Athlete, a groundbreaking business that provides affordable and accessible fitness solutions for individuals with disabilities and those who feel marginalized. Under his strong leadership, The Casual Athlete has become a beacon of support, offering one-on-one coaching, community 5k runs, aquafit classes, and youth mentorship, all within a welcoming and non-judgmental environment.

He has been a source of inspiration since 2016 through his dedication to helping others. His ability to overcome personal tragedy and accessibility challenges while still helping his clients speaks volumes about his character. He approaches his work with integrity, always striving to deliver "fitness for the rest of us." Known as a friendly and approachable figure in Strathroy, Greg has created a sense of belonging and connection among community members.

In addition to his fitness initiatives, Greg co-runs The Casual Kitchen, a community-focused endeavour in partnership with Jura & Co., which provides nutrient-packed, locally sourced meals for those in need. His commitment to mental health advocacy is evident through impactful initiatives like Liam's Lift, a fundraiser designed to assist individuals facing significant challenges in Strathroy, including providing therapy equipment for a client with quadriplegia and supporting families during difficult times.

His philanthropic efforts are notable, particularly his work to enhance food security in Strathroy with support from local businesses, demonstrating his genuine care for the well-being of his community.

Collaboration is at the heart of Greg's mission. He works closely with numerous local small businesses, organizing community yoga sessions in parks and breweries, and hosting engaging virtual reality events at local tech stores. His motivational speaking engagements at various businesses and lectures at Fanshawe College highlight his commitment to adaptive approaches in fitness for individuals with disabilities.

Greg Horton is a shining example of how one person's dedication to inclusivity and community can create long lasting change. Through his work, he continues to inspire countless individuals, demonstrating that fitness and wellness should be accessible to everyone. Greg has demonstrated the five YMCA core values of honesty, respect, responsibility, caring and inclusivity in countless ways and the YMCA peace committee is honoured to present him with this peace medal for his outstanding community efforts.