In April of 2023 the Keene Family YMCA presented their first DEI Impact Award, recognizing Keene Pride for their advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, and for giving a voice to this vibrant and important community.
The DEI Impact Award, which has been renamed the Dr. Albert C. Johnston Social Justice Award in honor of Dr. Johnston, a doctor in Keene during the 1940s whose family’s story became the subject of a book and a movie about race in America, recognizes individuals or organizations that have worked to advance diversity, equity, inclusivity and belonging in the Monadnock region, and it reflects the Y’s ongoing commitment to becoming an anti-racist, multi-cultural organization.
This year the Y is asking members of the community to submit their nominations for the 2024 Dr. Albert C. Johnston Social Justice Award. Nominees can include individuals, businesses, or organizations that have, through their actions, made significant strides towards advancing equity in a transformative and sustainable way, helping to make our community more inclusive and welcoming to all.
One awardee will be chosen by a YMCA committee from the nominees submitted, and will be honored at the Keene Family YMCA’s 2024 Annual Meeting in April.
Nominations for this year’s award have now closed. The awardee will be notified via email by Friday, March 15th. All are welcome to join us for the Annual Meeting on Wednesday, April 3rd from 6:00-7:00 pm to meet the honoree!