We cannot expect to live in a world of peace if we are unable to live in peace with those close to us – even those who differ from us….
Celebrating the presence of peace in our local and global communities
Peace begins with me
YMCA Peace Week is a time when we celebrate the presence of peace in our communities and reflect on the peace-building work that happens all year both inside and outside the YMCA.
If we each play a small role we collectively make change whether it’s to address poverty, environmental racism, violence etc. This is why we also decided to facilitate the community builds, it demonstrates an organization taking action to give back to a community. This exemplifies values in action, strengthening community and removing barriers related to food insecurity.
Ahead of YMCA Peace Week, President & CEO Kyle Barber reflects on ‘Peace’ and how it starts with us
Happening around us…
YMCA Peace Week calls people to: Build Communities. Act for Peace.
When we act for peace, together we build stronger and healthier communities.
Daniel Risdale | Town of Oakville
Oakville Community Foundation
Juliette | Community Volunteer
Oak Park Neighbourhood Centre Staff
Bonnie Husain | White Oaks Secondary School
Community build project
Peace is an active state of being, acts for peace can be big or small and can grow outward, creating ripples through the whole community.
During Peace Week this year, the YMCA of Oakville facilitated a Community Build Project where staff and volunteers came together to assemble and build garden boxes, and support food sustainability in Merchants Gate. They also helped assemble picnic tables that were donated to the Dorval Community residents.
Thank you to Valerie Walsh, Optimist Club, and Halton Region for your generous donation.
Peace Week: Get Involved
#buildcommunityactforpeace begins with us!
Drop off food donations for Food for Life at the YMCA of Oakville and help build senior Christmas boxes.
Join us for a free online yoga practice to connect and celebrate our community during YMCA Peace Week.
Participate from the comfort of your home individually, or with your family and friends. This 45-minute yoga practice is open to all fitness levels. Register today to book your spot; you will receive a ZOOM link in your e-mail.
Thursday, November 18 at 7:00 pm
#actofpeace Challenge
During Peace Week (November 13-20), we encourage you to share your videos or photos with you and/or your family participating in an #actforpeace. This can be taking part in candlelight walk for peace with your family or friends, raking leaves for an elderly neighbour, donating to a food drive, volunteer with a charity. These are just some ideas; participating in Peace Week and getting involved strengthens community while building connections
Tell us your #actforpeace! Take a video or photo, include your act for peace or reflections and post it to our Facebook Page or e-mail us at [email protected]
Together, we move forward…
We are deeply concerned for the immediate well-being of families, children and youth impacted by COVID-19 and the long-term repercussions on vulnerable populations. Prior to 2021, one in 12 children were living at or below the poverty line in Oakville. That number has increased because of the Pandemic and we are inviting you to help build a resilient community by donating to the YMCA of Oakville.
With your donation, together, we are
- Removing social isolation
- Improving mental health
- Strengthening a sense of belonging
- Improving access to services
Our Cause
The YMCA of Oakville is more than a gym and swim, we are a cause! The YMCA does not just strengthen bodies – the YMCA strengthens community.
More than cardio, a healthy and active lifestyle
More than a canoe, a springboard to leadership
More thank aquafit, an opportunity to make friends
More than financial assistance, a springboard to life
More than bricks and mortar, a place of belonging