The Mediation Center of the Coastal Empire –– Savannah, Ga.’s leading organization dedicated to helping citizens proactively manage conflict and creating a more conflict-resilient community for the past 40 years –– is currently accepting nominations for the 2026 Peacebuilder Awards. The 2026 Peacebuilder Awards will be presented at the fifth annual Peace in the Park event at Daffin Park on Sunday, September 27th.

Anyone who has inspired peace and positive change in Chatham County, Ga. is eligible to be nominated. Nominations can be submitted online at mediationsavannah.com/peaceinthepark until Monday, September 7 at midnight.

“From teens who mediate conflict between peers to first responders and faith leaders who build bridges between neighbors, peacebuilders live and work among us every day, but often receive little recognition for their tremendous contributions to our community,” said Dr. Aimee Bellmore, Executive Director of The Mediation Center of the Coastal Empire. “Our annual Peacebuilder Awards serve as a highlight at Peace in the Park and underscore the importance of choosing collaboration over conflict.”

Dedicated to honoring peacebuilders of all ages, The Mediation Center is currently accepting nominations for the following award categories:

●      Emerging Youth Peacebuilder: a rising peacebuilder age 11 to 14 who demonstrates early leadership in promoting kindness, understanding and conflict resolution

●      Youth Peacebuilder: a youth leader age 15 to 18 who helps mediate conflict among his/her peers and promotes peaceful solutions in their school or community

●      Community Peacebuilder: a local advocate who works to improve relationships, resolve conflicts and strengthen Savannah’s neighborhoods through positive change

●      Elected Official Peacebuilder: a government official who brings entities and agencies together and supports policies that strengthen collaboration and systemic enhancements for all

●      Faith Leader Peacebuilder: a compassionate leader who promotes spiritual growth and bridges understanding among Savannah’s faith communities

●      First Responder Peacebuilder: a police officer, firefighter, paramedic, EMT or 911 dispatcher who fosters trust, safety and positive relationships between first responders and citizens

●      Legend Peacebuilder: a remarkable individual who has historically built bridges in the community to minimize conflict and supports progressive movement

Peace in the Park, which is free and open to the public, serves as a community-wide celebration of peace, connection and unity. Event highlights include a Peace Walk, human peace sign formation and Courageous Conversations designed to inspire connection and spark dialogue. This popular family-friendly event will also feature a Community Resource Fair, youth art activities, food trucks and live entertainment.

To learn more about Peace in the Park or to submit a 2026 Peacebuilder Awards nomination, please visit mediationsavannah.com/peaceinthepark.