YMCA Northumberland brought the community together on November 20 for its annual Peace Medal Breakfast, a long-standing tradition that recognizes local residents and organizations who help build a more inclusive, compassionate, and peaceful Northumberland County.
Held at the Best Western Plus Cobourg and sponsored by Koellner Tax and Accounting Services and the Cobourg Police Service, the gathering marked 37 years of honouring individuals who create meaningful change without seeking recognition.
YMCA staff opened the event by highlighting hand-made “worry worms,” a gesture of kindness created by Kirsten Boniface and helpers from YMCA Child Care. CEO Eunice Kirkpatrick reminded attendees that peace is more than the absence of conflict – it is a daily commitment to justice, empathy, and inclusion.
This year’s Adult Peace Medal was awarded to Amy MacGillivray for her compassionate work at Horizons Thrift Stores, where her ability to connect with others has made a lasting impact. The Northumberland Giving Tree received the Adult Group Peace Medal for ensuring that no local child goes without a Christmas gift for the past 36 years. Representing the organization were volunteers Darlene Bunn, Mary Dunphy, Wendy Wotton, Alice Scott, Tom Cable, and Cheryl Baker.
The Northumberland Pride Youth Committee received the Youth Group Peace Medal for its leadership in fostering safer, more inclusive spaces for 2SLGBTQI plus youth across the county, including their work during this year’s Pride celebrations.
The morning also featured remarks from Board Director Jennifer Lavoie, who shared insights from her international development work and emphasized that peace transcends borders. Music from local singer-songwriter Rayleigh added to the celebration.
The event took place during YMCA Northumberland’s Peace Week, held November 15 to 21, which highlights community efforts to “act for peace” all year long.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)