In a world where so many people are shooting at each other to gain power or territory, get revenge or get rid of someone with different politics or religion – all with readily available weapons that others who have little heart for human life sell - the Peace Learning Center is a force for love and respect for the value of human life. It believes that conflicts can be diffused through training in communication, community leadership and non-violent self defense.

The Peace Learning Center is one of the few facilities in Indianapolis (and beyond) with a program that teaches conflict resolution and peace building skills to a wide age range of children, youth and adults. Located in Eagle Creek Park, it was begun in 1997 and has
reached more than 100,000 people in our community. It has received several awards, including the “Blessed are the Peacemakers Award” from the World Council of Churches!

Programs for elementary, middle and high school students teach cooperative problem solving, and ways to facilitate peace-building skills among peers. Correctional programs help incarcerated youth and those on probation take personal responsibility for behavior and build life skills, with 93% not being incarcerated again. Adult programs aim at improved communication, productivity and building trust within organizations. There are also programs for outdoor fun and appreciation of nature. A youth camp in Southern Indiana provides overnight programs and high-tech training facilities.

For more information, check out www.PeaceLearningCenter.org. Instead of always SOLVING conflicts, let us support PREVENTING conflicts and actually TEACHING PEACE by contributing to our September Mission of the Month.