Kids4Peace International

Kids4Peace is a nonpartisan, nonsectarian organization and does not take formal positions on political issues. We are engaged in the public arena, with a commitment to rejecting violence in all its forms, challenging an unjust and unsustainable status quo, and working together for long-term solutions. What do you mean by interfaith? Kids4Peace invites youth to share their beliefs and traditions, as practiced by their families, and to learn from others. Participants in Kids4Peace approach Judaism, Christianity, Islam and other traditions in very different ways, and our staff are committed to supporting youth in their own practice. We do not permit proselytizing or any attempts to influence a child's religious practice. We do hope that participants in Kids4Peace gain a detailed understanding of different religious traditions, including the diversity of practice within their own. Is religious observance required? No, Kids4Peace is open to all youth regardless of religious background. During the program, participants learn about the beliefs and practices of multiple traditions, in order to foster understanding, challenge stereotypes, and develop appreciation for shared values. Participation in prayer or religious activities is not required as a condition of involvement, though youth will have opportunities to visit houses of worship and see the rituals and practices of different faiths. How are you funded? Kids4Peace relies on a large network of individuals, congregations, community groups and private foundations for financial support. Our annual budget of $850,000 comes primarily from gifts of $500 - $5,000. We are a fully independent NGO, and not part of any religious organization. Kids4Peace maintains a scholarship fund, so that no child is ever turned away for lack of ability to pay. Is Kids4Peace part of the Episcopal Church? Kids4Peace was founded in the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem and the Middle East, by leaders at St. George's College and the St. George's Cathedral Pastorate Committee. The current ...