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www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Friday, February 14, 2014 | 4 Women's Centre to celebrate men making a difference by John Bkila Oakville Beaver Staff Ending violence against women isn't a women's issue -- it's a societal one. That's the change in thinking the Oakville-based The Women's Centre wants to spread to the public. It is hoping its inaugural Men Who Make A Difference awards will be a step in that direction. "We want to celebrate and recognize the exceptional men in our community who make a difference in the lives of women and children by working to eradicate violence against women," said Melvina Walter, who has been The Women's Centre executive director for the last 17 years. "We could build more shelters, but that won't solve the problem. Until we start engaging men and young boys and they start speaking up against violence and gender discrimination, I don't think that anything will ever change." In the making for the last couple of years, the awards seek to spotlight men in Halton who work to make the community safer for the women and children who live in it, said Walter. "We're looking for role-models and men who have made a positive contribution. That may not necessarily be someone who is directly influenced by violence against an individual woman, but it could be a coach of young boys' soccer team, or those who work with children or teenagers; basically, leaders in the community," she said. "I believe that when community leaders start taking a stand... it allows other men to do the same." Nominations in the following categories: Community Service, Cultural Diversity, Emerging Leader, Health and Wellness, and Life Time Achievement, can be made either online at www. menwhomakeadifference.org or by calling The Women's Centre at 905847-9104 until Friday, Feb. 21. The criteria includes: making a difference in the lives of women and children; working to wipe out violence against women; managing innovative programs that enrich lives; or shifting the societal norms that define manhood. Organizers are hoping to get between 10-20 nominations for the inaugural awards. We're looking for role-models and men who have made a positive contribution. That may not necessarily be someone who is directly influenced by violence against an individual woman, but it could be a coach of a young boys' soccer team, or those who work with children or teenagers; basically, leaders in the community. I believe that when community leaders start taking a stand... it allows other men to do the same. executive director, The Women's Centre Melvina Walter Melvina Walter "We realize there are a lot more good men in our community than that, but because it's our first year, we're hoping to get between that number," Walter said. The recipients will be honoured at an awards gala on Wednesday, March 26 at the Oakville Conference Centre, 2515 Wyecroft Rd., from 5-9 p.m. -- tickets cost $65. Dr. Michael Kaufman will be the keynote speaker at the awards dinner. As a public speaker, educator, writer and consultant, Kaufman works to find "innovative ways to engage men and boys in promoting gender equality and transforming their lives." He has worked with the United Nations, governments, non-governmental organizations and postsecondary institutions, among others, and he is the co-founder of the White Ribbon Campaign -- a global effort of men working to end violence against women. "He goes around the world talking about gender and equality, and the forms of violence against women; so what better role-model is there to have as our keynote speaker for our inaugural event," said Walter. Hoping to make the Men Who Make A Difference awards an annual event, The Women's Centre's executive director notes the aim is not only to create awareness but to also support the emergence of men's voices. "We see it as a small way to encourage men's involvement and we want to recognize those who have made and continue to make a difference in our communities," she said. STEPHEN DURBIN BA LLB BARRISTER AND SOLICITOR A LAWYER WHO WILL FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHTS. FAMILY LAW Highest rated family lawyer in Ontario (January 21, 2014) on lawyerratingz.com Email: info@stephendurbin.ca · 905-847-0888 156 Lakeshore Road East, Suite 203, Oakville Some limitations apply. Cannot be combined with other offer applies to kitchen cabinets only. Valid only on purchases after January 1, 2014. Offer expires Mar. 31/14 www.stephendurbin.ca