Ashoka is the global association of the world’s leading social entrepreneurs – individuals with system-changing solutions for the world’s most urgent social problems. According to Ashoka, the work Eva is doing with Peacebuilders is transforming society's response to youth in conflict.
Peacebuilders' ground-breaking program to help inner-city youth cope with cross-cultural conflicts, stay out of trouble with the law, cut violence, and build safer schools and communities was honoured in 2009 by the Toronto Community Foundation as the recipient of a Vital Ideas Award. As part of this recognition, Peacebuilders also became a part of the Toronto Community Foundation's Community Knowledge Centre, a "virtual showcase of innovative and effective solutions to some of our city’s most pressing issues".
Presented to Eva Marszewski who, through her work with Peacebuilders, has exemplified Dianne's commitment to law as an instrument for achieving social justice and fairness.
Presented to the Peacebuilders Youth Circles Project for outstanding achievement in strengthening neighbourhoods and promoting community safety in the City of Toronto.
www.toronto.ca/community_safety_awards/community_safety_winners2008.htm#4
Presented to Detective Hugh Wong of 51 Division for his work with our Peacemaking Circles Pilot Project in the communities of Regent Park and St. Jamestown. The award came with a cheque of $5,000 which Detective Wong generously donated to Peacebuilders. Justice Canada Magazine quoted Detective Wong as follows: "The beauty of the program lies in its flexibile, consultative nature ... Because all of the key people in a troubled youth's life are engaged, the program usually produces lasting, effective solutions."