By continuing to use our site, you consent to the processing of cookies, user data. If you do not want your data to be processed, please leave the site. Find our full Privacy Policy here.

FROM CONFLICT TO COMPASSION

Support young leaders to create more laughter, peace and compassion.


Right now 2 billion people live in countries in conflict, including 1 in 6 children.

Violent conflict prevents growth and development. However, promoting peace in areas at risk for or experiencing violent conflict is both effective and economically viable: For every $1 invested in peace building, there is a potential $16 reduction in the cost of armed conflict.

"When we consider the costs of war -- to the global economy but most of all to humanity's very soul -- peacebuilding is a bargain, and a prerequisite for development and a better future for all," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

As a grassroots, global organization, Play for Peace has been driving personal and community power-building and positive change in high-violence environments for over 25 years, supporting generations of active peace builders at the local level.

Developing Local Leaders Catalyzes Change

Play for Peace is integrated into schools, community centers, refugee camps and/or local organizations, where local youth leaders are trained to conduct "Practice Peace" cooperative play sessions for younger children and community building projects that benefit entire neighborhoods.

Get Involved

There are many ways you can positively impact thousands of children and teens, all of who dream of a life without fear of violence and discrimination. Will you join us?

Volunteer locally
or online.

Make your dollars
impact lives.

Bring Play for Peace
to your community.

Our Locations

Any time, day or night, Play for Peace is happening somewhere in the world. In 60+ communities around the globe—each with its own diverse characteristics, talents, and resources—our work is transforming lives, all while bringing richness and creativity to our diverse global learning community.

Click on each of the countries to learn about its unique challenges and our ongoing efforts to create peace.

Compassion + Connection + Community

Read our blog and be inspired.
Share and spread the word.
  • May 31, 2024

    We are excited to announce that Dr. Michael Gass has joined the Play for Peace team as our new Director of Research and Funds. With decades of experience and over 2,000 citations, Dr. Gass is a renowned expert in educational research and adventure therapy. He co-authored the leading textbook "Adventure Therapy" and has held key leadership roles in experiential education. His innovative research and dedication to community impact align perfectly with our mission. Dr. Gass’s long-standing support for Play for Peace highlights his belief in the power of compassionate play. Join us in welcoming him to our team.

  • May 19, 2024

    In the latest "It's In The Experience" podcast, Sherry Bagley talks with Sarah Gough and Marilyn Levin from Play for Peace about the power of teamwork in experiential education. They share their experiences in bringing people together and making a positive impact. The episode highlights the partnership between the Association for Experiential Education and Play for Peace, offering tips for new educators. Listen to learn how experiential education can help improve the world.

  • May 18, 2024

    We are excited to welcome Carol Bowden, Pharm.D., MBA, and Rahul Sha, MBA to our Board of Directors. Carol, and Rahul, bring diverse expertise in healthcare and global finance. Their addition will greatly enhance our mission. Special thanks to Cause Strategy Partners for the introduction. Stay tuned for updates on this new chapter.