2025 Peace Builder Awards

Peace Builder Awards Oct 24th 2025

Our 22nd Annual Peace Builder Awards will be held on October 24th, 2025, at the Four Points by Sheraton in Bellingham. Since 2003, this special evening has celebrated the inspiring individuals and organizations whose dedication to community-building has created lasting, positive change throughout our neighborhoods, schools, and all of Whatcom County. It's a night where we come together to honor the extraordinary work being done to strengthen the fabric of our community. The Peace Builder Awards also play a vital role in supporting WDRC’s wide array of services, ensuring that we can continue to foster peace, understanding, and connection for years to come.

Nominations will be accepted April 17th through June 30th

Early Bird Tickets will go on sale July 15th

Sign up for our newsletter to hear first when tickets become available!

Please email outreach@whatcomdrc.org to learn more about volunteer and sponsorship opportunities!

 

Meet the 2024 Peace Builder Award Winners

 

WHATCOM CARE
Social Justice Award
For their collaborative approach to building an anti-racist educational network in Whatcom County

ALLISON WILLIAMS
Whatcom Perinatal Mental Health Task Force
Public Service Award
For her tireless work to support parents and perinatal health in Whatcom County

ROOTS OF EMPATHY
Sara Airoldi
Education Award
For their innovative work in building young people’s empathy

THE AIROW PROJECT
April Katz
Inclusion Award
For their vital work to foster greater belonging and accessibility through adaptive recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities

 

TRUSTED ADULT WORKSHOP LEADERS
Col’la’lewet “Kiera” Hillaire
Emma Blue Esquivel
Cassy La
Joaquin Carrillo
Youth Award
For their inspiring work to create and train trusted adults in support of youth mental wellbeing and safety

Dr.  JESSICA DUBEK
DentALL
Healthcare Award
For her impactful efforts to meet basic needs through increased dental care access for low income and rural individuals

WHATCOM PENPAL PROJECT
Beth Girma & Sara Glebe
Volunteer Award
For their principled endeavor to increase understanding and connection between individuals incarcerated in Whatcom County Jail and other community members

 
 

Watch the full 2024 Peace Builder Awards recording

Thank you 2024 PBA Sponsors

 
 

Thank you Silent Auction Donors