Category : United States

In Chicago, what started as an idea two years ago, to lead a Practice Peace Session (cooperative play session) with a neighboring elementary school, only to have it canceled due to the pandemic, finally happened with a little persistence and with the help of a whole community! Meet Zaire in Part 1 of this series.

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, our clubs are working hard in their communities, creating positivity and compassion in a time where there is much fear and uncertainty. One such club is the Play for Peace Chicago Goode Club, which recently put together a project to bring unity and identity to club members during this trying time. 

Play for Peace is not just an organization. It is a family of peace builders trying to change the world. The Play for Peace connection is strong—so strong that it recently brought together a group of Play for Peace members and former members in Chicago, who are very devoted to spreading Play for Peace in their communities.

As part of our most recent Global Games for Interfaith Harmony Week, this week we hosted an exchange between the HOLA club in Los Angeles, California, and the Cantel Club in Guatemala. Our clubs' shared their visions and the work they are doing, and had a blast in the process!

This month we hosted our first-ever Playshop Connect—with much success! Not only did the group—an organization based in the Chicago area—learn about Play for Peace, but they also took part in a series of fun, interactive challenges and activities that created connection and community among team members.

Back in July, Play for Peace conducted a youth training at a peace camp in Nampa, Idaho. Not only was it a great success, but it made a lasting impression on participants and inspired the creation of a new club. 

Last year, Play for Peace worked with Texas A&M's Conflict and Development Foundation to bring laughter and joy to children in Guatemala. It was a truly inspiring experience for both the children and those leading the session.

Watch as the youth of Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA) tell us how xenophobia and racism impacts them and how they're standing up to end it. 

The HOLA Play for Peace club took World Interfaith Harmony Week as an opportunity to build upon this theme and develop a greater understanding and appreciation of their differences.

Games, laughter, lessons learned, and nearly 12 people impacted, the Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA) Play for Peace group brought a wonderful, peaceful message to the Compassion Games.