Search for Common Ground works to prevent and end violent conflict before, during, and after a crisis. Search has a 35-year track record of equipping individuals and societies to find alternatives to violence. We strive to build sustainable peace for generations to come by working with all sides of a conflict, providing the tools needed to work together and find constructive solutions.

Search's mission is to transform the way the world deals with conflict, away from adversarial approaches and toward cooperative solutions. Instead of tearing down an existing world, we focus on constructing a new one. We do this through a type of peacebuilding called “conflict transformation.” We shift the everyday interactions between hostile groups of people, so they can work together to build up their community, choosing joint problem-solving over violent means.

Our programs for children and youth employ an innovative, multi-pronged approach, incorporating elements of education, voice, action, partnerships, and policy. Our programs range in topic from peace education, youth-focused TV and radio shows, leadership training, and sports clinics. In all of our youth projects, we help young people show the world that they are leaders for peace.