Cindy Floyd and Song Kim receive the 2023 YMCA Peace Medal.
Saint John, NB – From November 19-25, during YMCA Peace Week, the YMCA of Greater Saint John, together with YMCAs across Canada, is celebrating the presence of peace in our communities and reflecting on the peace building work that happens all year both inside and outside the YMCA.
In keeping with this year’s International Day of Peace theme of “Actions for Peace,” YMCA Peace Week 2023 focuses on fostering peace in our communities locally and globally, today and every day. With the UN’s Global Goals in mind, we join YMCAs around the world in activating Vision 2030, World YMCA’s global strategy to build a more just, sustainable, equitable, and inclusive world where we can all shine.
During YMCA Peace Week, we honour those at the forefront of these peace-building efforts and encourage Canadians to ask themselves how they can bring change to their communities.
“It’s important that we work together to create peaceful communities where everyone feels that they belong,” says Shilo Boucher, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Saint John. “By celebrating YMCA Peace Week together, we are taking a stand and creating the future we want for our community, country, and world.”
A highlight of this celebration is the presentation of the YMCA Peace Medals to an individual or group who, without any special resources, demonstrates a commitment to peace through individual contributions made within their local, national, or global community. This year’s ceremony was held on November 15, 2023, and honoured Cindy Floyd and Song Kim with the YMCA Peace Medals for their significant contributions towards peace-building.
Cindy Floyd is a champion for local fundraisers and philanthropy who has been involved in supporting people in her community. She approaches philanthropy as something everyone in the community can get involved regardless of a person’s economic status. She helps connect resources to people, ensuring they have everything to implement the goals and vision to help bring a positive impact to their communities.
“Cindy’s approach to philanthropy, whether at work or as a volunteer, is one that involves everyone and values all,” said Kelly Evans, President & CEO of the Greater Saint John Community Foundation.
Song Kim is a champion for diversity and collaboration who helps to create various opportunities for newcomers to engage in community-building activities through her work. She also initiated a women’s hiking group, which now has over 500 women, who connect with each other and with nature and create new friendships, in addition to improving their mental health by coming out of loneliness and isolation.
Cindy Floyd and Song Kim received the 2023 YMCA Peace Medals at the Peace Breakfast held on November 15, 2023, at the Delta Hotel.
The proceeds from this event will go to the YMCA Riseralda, Colombia, to help with their efforts in implementing and developing social programs that promote peaceful communities.
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About YMCA of Greater Saint John
The YMCA of Greater Saint John is a trusted charity that ignites the potential in people, fostering lasting personal and social change. We are committed to providing opportunities for people to shine through a variety of programs and services, including health, fitness and recreation, licensed child care, camps, outdoor education, employment, education, newcomer services, leadership development and volunteer opportunities. With over 19 locations and supporting more than 22,000 people in the Greater Saint John area, the Y is a leading charity that helps everyone shine. For more information, visit www.saintjohny.ca