The American Friends Service Committee carries out service, development, social justice, and peace programs throughout the world. Founded by Quakers in 1917 to provide conscientious objectors with an opportunity to aid civilian war victims, AFSC's work attracts the support and partnership of people of many races, religions, and cultures. The New Orleans Peace and Economic Justice Program seeks to educate, train and advocate about issues around violence, economic justice, and education. The program has a focus on organizing as a tool for community empowerment utilizing conflict resolution skills, art making, dialogue, and the sharing of information and resources to achieve economic justice and a reduction in violence. The program is grounded in the principles of self-help and collaboration. We partner with like minded organizations throughout New Orleans, with target programs that serve communities in the 7th Ward and Florida/Desire areas.