Don't let attacks breed intolerance: peace award winner

Given the recent terrorist attacks in France, a Sudburian presented with a peace award Nov. 19 reflected on what the world's response should be.

Huntington University president Kevin McCormick said while it's important to pray for the victims' families, we shouldn't allow acts of hatred “to turn us into people of intolerance.”

McCormick also shone the light on fellow volunteers in being presented with the YMCA Canada Peace Medallion on Thursday.

The awards are given to individuals or groups who, without any special resources, demonstrate a commitment to promoting and inspiring participation, empathy, advocacy, community and empowerment.

He said he felt blessed to receive the award not because he's so deserving, but because he's part of a community that cares.

That includes not only the Rotarians and fellow award recipients attending the early-morning ceremony at YMCA Sudbury, but people out on the front lines, caring for the needy.

“They are true heroes — the true carriers of peace,” McCormick said. “I truly believe they are the doves that will reach out to the future, to make our lives more safe and secure.”

The awards are handed out every year during YMCA Peace Week, when people are asked to reflect on peace, and to take action. They're presented in partnership with the Rotary Club of Sudbury and the Rotary Club of Sudbury Sunrisers.

McCormick was presented with the award because of work to promote human rights in Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Thailand, Burma and Laos.

He has worked with international aid agencies such as UNICEF and UNHCR, and his efforts have been recognized by the United Nations, numerous governments and human rights agencies.

Locally, McCormick has worked as a volunteer in our community and is currently chair of Maison Vale Hospice.

Also presented with the YMCA Canada Peace Medallion was Mick Weaver, general manager of local radio station KICX 91.7. Weaver has led many projects that have improved the well-being of individuals and the community.

He was the driving force behind “Hike for a Hero,” a walk organized to raise funds to assist Cpl. William Kerr in making his home accessible after he was greviously injured in Afghanistan.

Weaver also led the KICX for Kids drive to raise money for the purchase of neo-natal ventilators for Health Sciences North and to expand the pediatric treatment room.

He's also worked to initiate the development of a health initiative for indigenous people in the Far North.

Weaver said although the award is supposed to go to someone who's made a difference without any special resources, he said he feels like he had two very special resources at his disposal.

Those are the staff at KICX 91.7, who have volunteered their time to raise funds, as well as fellow Rotary members, who have inspired many of his fundraising efforts.

YMCA Sudbury board chair Helen Francis said that in today's world, peace can seem to be an overwhelming goal.

“But if you look at ways to contribute to peace in your own home and community and gradually work up to bigger national and international issues, it becomes manageable and attainable,” she said, in a press release.

“Our goal is to demonstrate that together we can make a difference in creating a peaceful community.”

A number of honourable mentions for the YMCA Canda Peace Medallion were also presented. Recipients include:

-École secondaire catholique Champlain teacher Carol Bradley-Whissell, who gets her students involved in volunteer work.

-Soup Sisters/Broth Brothers founders Liz Spooner-Young, Kelly Louiseize and Louise Bergeron.

-Tina Montgomery, founder of the Sudbury chapter of Daughters for Life.