Mayor Bill Cole (left) and Deputy Mayor Mike Boyett (right) thank participants for continuing CCR, an essential program for the city of Billings.

As the first snows of winter fell in Billings, Montana, an inspiring, diverse team of local peacebuilders joined the 7th Annual Global Peace Forum. The forum, hosted by the Global Peace Foundation, has become a cherished space for dialogue and community-building across the city. This year, it carried special meaning as the Cross Community Reconciliation (CCR) project launched its newest initiative, Block by Block, on December 6, 2025—a step forward in its mission to heal divides and foster understanding.

The day began with a series of thoughtful sessions that invited participants to examine modern peacebuilding from a deeper perspective. Presenters explored the meaning of peace in the 21st century, the importance of recognizing our shared humanity, and the lingering impact of historical injustices. One especially memorable moment came when Gary, a CCR facilitator, introduced an innovative element to the discussion. As he explored the theme of shared humanity, he utilized AI in real-time during his presentation to summarize complex ideas. Participants watched as technology helped clarify big concepts, making the conversation more accessible and engaging. His approach demonstrated how new tools can support age-old goals: understanding, humility, and connection.

Participants engage in dialogue about community-driven peacebuilding.

The CCR mission encapsulates this spirit: “In an effort to reduce racial discrimination and increase empathy and understanding, it is our responsibility to work to build bridges, strengthen friendship and mutual respect, and build confidence in our diverse communities.” Throughout the day, that mission came alive in the faces and voices of the attendees.

One of the most meaningful moments unfolded during the luncheon, when the room gathered to celebrate the 2025 graduating class of CCR. Twenty graduates were honored for their dedication, growth, and participation in the program—an achievement made possible by a community of supporters who believe in reconciliation as a grassroots effort. Among the guests recognized were Mayor Bill Cole and Deputy Mayor Mike Boyett of Billings, along with leaders from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Yellowstone County, the Montana Rescue Mission, and Community Leadership Developments Inc. Each was presented with a gift and certificate of appreciation, a gesture of gratitude for helping sustain a program funded entirely through donations.

Nick (left) sits next to CCR Director Mike Yakawich during a community mapping exercise.

Throughout the day, several CCR members stood to share their personal journeys. Luke described his desire to model service and volunteerism for his family and how CCR provided him with a path to practice peacebuilding in his daily life. Yuliya, who immigrated from Ukraine, spoke with emotion about the divisions facing her homeland. Even among people who look alike and share similar backgrounds, she explained, national fractures can create deep wounds—reminding everyone present of the vital importance of reconciliation. Nick shared memories of growing up in the Middle East, where he witnessed both conflict and the kindness of people from many cultures. Those experiences shaped his compassion and stirred his desire to build bridges across differences. Their stories captured the heart of CCR: ordinary people choosing to create community in extraordinary ways.

CCR participants share meaningful objects in an exercise to foster understanding and community.

Throughout the forum, participants engaged in meaningful exercises designed to deepen trust and connection. In one activity, individuals shared objects that held personal significance, offering glimpses into their histories and values. Another exercise paired people for honest, face-to-face conversations centered on the simple but powerful affirmation, “I see you.” A community mapping project concluded, inviting the group to envision where they might serve together in the months ahead.

For CCR Director Mike Yakawich, the most inspiring part of the event was watching CCR members take the lead themselves. They handled documentation, guided presentations, welcomed guests at registration, and assisted with setting up and taking down the event space. What began years ago as a facilitated program has evolved into a true community-led movement. And as sponsors sat in on the sessions, several were so moved by the experience that they voluntarily offered to expand their support into 2026.

By the time the forum drew to a close, snow continued to fall outside, blanketing Billings in quiet white. Inside, however, the energy was anything but cold. People left with warm hearts, renewed purpose, and strengthened bonds—reminded once again that peace is built when strangers choose to see one another as part of the same human family.

The Global Peace Foundation and the Cross Community Reconciliation team now look ahead to another year of building bridges—patiently, intentionally, and block by block—in the hope of creating a Montana where belonging and understanding can take root in every community.

Give to the Montana CCR program and help bridge diverse communities.