The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is teaming up with other YMCAs across Canada to inspire and empower youth and adults to make a positive impact in the world, especially during the week of Nov. 15 to 22.

That week marks World Peace Week and people are encouraged to be peace-builders in their daily lives, as emphasized by the YMCA World Peace Week theme: the Power of Peace, the Power of People.

A special highlight of the week will be awarding the YMCA Peace Medallion to an individual or group who, without any special resources, demonstrate a commitment to peace through special contributions made within their community or overseas.

“In today’s globalized world, we are all connected to each other more than we may realize,” said Cat O’Connor, general manager of the day camp, outdoor education and international programs at the Simcoe/Muskoka YMCA. “Through our consumption and production, we are connected on a daily basis by a huge number of environmental and social issues, which call us together to create a more sustainable world.”

Although peace building is a part of the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka’s year-round programs, extra emphasis is placed on exploring peace on many different levels especially with children and youth. This year, environmental stewardship is being emphasized as an important part of world peace building.

“Our individual actions toward reducing our environmental footprint (are) a key component of creating a healthier and more peaceful world,” said O’Connor.

A YMCA Peace Building Activity Guide was created to help youth translate values into actions by exploring topics such as cooperation, empathy, respect, positive communication, conflict resolution and parallels between global and community issues. Parents and educators are encouraged to visit www.ymca.ca to download the free guide.

The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka believes in the importance of building strong children, families and communities. In order to achieve this on a global scale, peace must be promoted. For more than three years, the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka has had a partnership with the YMCA of Sierra Leone and one of the primary focuses of the partnership has been on peace building and conflict resolution initiatives.

For more information on the YMCA’s World Peace Week contact Cat O’Connor at 705-325-2253.