The Owen Sound Family YMCA has named the latest recipients of their Peace Medals.
At a ceremony to mark Peace Week on Friday — a pair of medals were handed out by Owen Sound Family Y CEO Gayle Graham.
This year’s recipients are Hillcrest Elementary Teacher Jackie Kennedy, and the frontline staff and volunteers at the M’Wikwedong Native Cultural Resource Centre in Owen Sound.
Graham says Ms. Kennedy and the M”Wikwedong staff promote peace by “thinking it, saying it and doing it.”
Kennedy was nominated for the award by two of her students, 11-year-old Sasha and 10-year-old Ethan.
Both students say Ms. Kennedy is a kind and caring person, and someone they look up to as a role model.
Kennedy is involved in a group called “Me to We” — that works with students to raise awareness on a number of peace initiatives.
She says she’s very fortunate to be in a teaching position that allows her to get kids involved in peace initiatives.
The members of the M”Wikwedong Centre are also at the forefront of peace promotion in the local community.
Executive Director Pam Linklater says their goal is to break down cultural barriers and promote equality, peace and justice.
Bruce-Grey Owen Sound MPP Bill Walker and Owen Sound Councillor Jim McManaman were also on hand to congratulate the Peace Medal recipients.
