Calgarians Give Peace a Chance!

On Nov. 24, Calgary’s YMCA awarded Peace Medals to eight of 20 nominees for their outstanding work and dedication to building community.

Award winners ranged from junior high or high school leadership groups to families working together. Each nominee and recipient was completely unique, but the one thing they had in common was an effort to making a difference and their work towards something much bigger than themselves.

“Life is not about us. It is about making things happen for others,” said Ashid Bahl, winner of the International Peace Medal.

Bahl is the founder of For the Love of Children Society, which has built 74 schools and orphanages world wide, helping more than 100,000 children and their families. From Bishop McNally High School in Calgary, YMCA Extreme Leaders Leadership Group proudly took home the community youth Peace Medal. The group was recognized for their work for other youth, such as raising money for recreation programs for children.

Jomar Sangalang, a member of Bishop McNally’s YMCA Extreme Leaders Leadership Group explained that peace is making a difference in small ways.

“Community building is hot,” said Jaclyn Mann, recipient of the Community Individual Peace Medal.

Mann is the co-founder of the youth-geared program The Good Life Community Bicycle Shop and works with many other non-profits.

There were many familiar faces supporting the event, with Global Calgary anchor Angela Kokott hosting and former mayor Dave Bronconnier in the audience, showing his support to the YMCA.

Local Calgary band Magnolia Buckskin kicked off the awards, followed by touching visual presentation recognizing all 23 nominees.

The YMCA Peace Medal Awards is an annual event open to anyone. If you’re searching for a little inspiration or just want to support your community, check out the recipient’s stories yourself.

As John Barrett, co-founder of The Good Life Community Bicycle Shop, exclaimed, “The time is now. We need action!”