The programs we sponsor recognize a Christian heritage while welcoming people of all faith traditions. We seek to celebrate "what works"in our communities; to promote understanding before action; to include all generations; and to help people build relationships with persons different from themselves.

History
Peace Connections, formerly the Newton Area Peace Center, was started in 1984 as a church-based response to the increasing threat of nuclear war. In 2001, the organization expanded its services, changed its name to reflect increased emphasis on personal peace and relationship issues, and increased its accessibility by moving to a ground-floor location on Main Street.

Three Major Initiatives

Peace Connections work focuses on three major initiatives:

1.  Bridges Out of Poverty - Peace Connections is actively providing leadership in our community through education and collaboration opportunities.  Area businesses, social service agencies, health care services, churches, schools, court service and others are working together to build understanding and make changes in how people from middle class and those from generational poverty relate to each other.  We coordinate monthly community Bridges Out of Poverty meetings, community Getting Ahead classes for those from poverty wanting to improve their situation, and the Power Up Kids Summer Food Program in Newton that offers free breakfasts and lunches for all children ages 2-18 during the summer.

2.  Nonviolence Education - Peace Connections provides resources on the power of nonviolence in relating to ourselves and others.  Examples are:  Pledge of Nonviolence, Nonviolent Communication, and A Season for Nonviolence.  We offer education for all ages, with a special focus on the needs of children.

3.  A Place to Grow Peace - Peace Connections celebrates the peace that is (already) within us and equips us to grow that peace and share it with others in our everyday lives.

Financial Support
Peace Connections is supported by contributions from individuals, churches and other organizations, as well as by the sale of peace-related products. (See our Gift Shop.)