On September 17,1998, Play for Peace officially registered as a nonprofit organization in Chicago. For the past 20 years, the organization has brought together children, youth, and organizations from communities in conflict, using cooperative play to create laughter, compassion, and peace.
On September 17, 2018, thousands of Play for Peace community members came together to celebrate their commitment to creating peace in the world. Club members sent well wishes and organized special activities in their communities. During a Facebook Live event, Play for Peace’s work was showcased through videos and interviews with volunteers and partners from all over the world. The event reached an impressive 13,000 people—many of whom were interacting with each other during the event.
The highlight was a panel discussion with Founders Michael Terrien and Craig Dobkin, Board Chair John Guarrine, program coordinator Archana Magar, research coordinator Dian Mitrayani, certified trainer Chaun Pridgeon, youth leader Rayan Salam and Founder of the Compassion Games and Play for Peace partner Sommer Joy Ramer.
Michael Terrien reminded us during the discussion: "When the world is struggling with nationalism and authoritarianism, Play for Peace is needed more than ever."
Happy anniversary Play for Peace—here is to the next 20 years.
