John W. Copeland Civility Award

John W. Copeland Civility Award

In 2003, the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit created the John W. Copeland Civility Award to honor the example of service and leadership of the John W. Copeland. Copeland was a YMCA staff member who led the efforts of integrating the Detroit YMCA’s in the 1960’s. Formerly the Executive Director of the St. Antoine YMCA, the…

John W. Copeland photo courtesy of Oberlin College
John W. Copeland courtesy of
Oberlin College

In 2003, the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit created the John W. Copeland Civility Award to honor the example of service and leadership of the John W. Copeland. Copeland was a YMCA staff member who led the efforts of integrating the Detroit YMCA’s in the 1960’s. Formerly the Executive Director of the St. Antoine YMCA, the historically African American branch, he became the Detroit Y’s first Affirmative Action Officer and first multicultural VP of Philanthropy, Planning and Membership, after ensuring membership access and equity for all in the community.

This February we want you to help us celebrate leaders in Southeast Michigan who like Copeland strengthen community and inclusion for all.

Nominate a leader who:
-Lives and serves Southeast Michigan
-Not an appointed public official
-Exhibits servant leadership characteristics
-Strives for inclusion within community for a stronger Southeast Michigan

Get your nomination in by February 10th and be entered into a raffle to win a 1-year family membership to the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.