The Play for Peace leadership collective—comprising our Board of Directors, Roundtable Committee, Council Committee, and Global Staff—embodies a collaborative, decolonial approach to leadership and decision-making. Recognizing that traditional, top-down structures often silence diverse voices, we’ve built a framework that values shared power, community wisdom, and cultural humility. Each member of the leadership collective contributes unique insights from their communities, honoring lived experiences that guide and shape our programs. By fostering a structure that includes multiple perspectives and voices, we aim to dismantle hierarchies and center the needs and aspirations of the children and communities we serve. This approach allows us to create truly inclusive spaces that reflect, respect, and uplift local identities, ensuring our work resonates deeply and meaningfully across different cultures and regions worldwide.
A new era of collaborative leadership: honoring voices, inspiring change.
The Global Staff at Play for Peace brings our mission to life by supporting, coordinating, and guiding community members worldwide as well as the leadership committees. They ensure our work is culturally relevant, providing training and resources to empower local leaders in fostering peace and resilience within their communities. By connecting Play for Peace members across regions, the Global Staff strengthens our movement, uniting diverse communities in a shared vision for global peace.
The Play for Peace Council serves as a guiding force, bringing together a diverse group of leaders who provide strategic insights and cultural perspectives to strengthen our mission. Council members ensure that Play for Peace’s approach remains inclusive, adaptable, and responsive to the unique needs of each community we serve. The Council is essential in aligning our global vision with local realities, fostering a compassionate, cohesive movement for peace.
The Roundtable is a passionate group who is committed to dedicating their time, resources, and expertise to help expand our impact, reaching more children and communities across the globe. Members of the Roundtable take on the mission of using their wisdom and courage to raise awareness and resources for our programs.
Craig Dobkin
Joanne Finegan
Sanford Tollette
Michael Fisher
Hugh Fitzpatrick
John Dillon
Paul Barron
Craig Zablocki
Brian Barhaugh
Jeff Opiekun
Bruce Dobkin
Tom Medicus
Chris Wiooleyhand
Bill Berault
Marty Piepol
Jacob Chacko
Harry Shanis
Marilyn Levin
Michael Gass
Peter McDowell
The Play for Peace Board of Directors provides essential oversight, strategic direction, and governance to advance our mission. This committed group of leaders ensures that Play for Peace remains true to its values and purpose, making decisions that guide our long-term vision and organizational health. With a focus on sustainability and impact, the Board collaborates closely with the Executive Director to support the growth and effectiveness of our programs. Their stewardship is vital to ensuring that Play for Peace continues to create safe, inclusive spaces for peace-building and resilience around the world.