News Summary

Springfield, Ohio — A record 242 children are learning to appreciate differences and resolve conflict peacefully this week during Peace Camp at Perrin Woods Elementary School.

Funded by donations, Peace Camp has been coordinated annually by the Springfield Peace Center for 22 years.

"So many cultures can get together and learn about each other," said director Nanci Keller. "This is the only free conflict resolution camp in the United States that we know of."

"Imagine Peace" is this year's camp theme. Children between 4 years old and those finishing sixth grade are enjoying creative activities such as learning to write "peace" in Japanese and handling bullying behavior in a positive manner, with demonstrations by "I Care Cat" and "Bully Bear."

Approximately 167 people volunteered, including 40 teenagers, to make the camp a success. "We so appreciate the volunteers," said Keller. "We couldn't do it with out them."

Khadijah Allen, 14, volunteered as a teen mediator for her second year and said she will return for a third. "It's a good program for kids if they are having problems," she said. "We teach them how to work together."

Allen said they teach the children "I Care" language, such as "please" and "thank you."

The local Altrusa Chapter participated in the festivities with their Hook-A-Book activity. Each child was able to keep a book.

Peace Camp is also the home of the Sarah and Reece Kibler memorial food drive.

"In one day we collected almost 200 cans. I think that's awesome," Keller said.

The food will be donated to St. John's Food Pantry.

Keller, who has been involved with Peace Camp for 18 years, believes that by appreciating differences there are fewer conflicts.

Future goals for Peace Camp include expanding the camp beyond a week.

"Every year it's such a kind, loving environment," said third-year teen mediator Cedes Koepnick. "Not a lot of people know about it. It's a very welcoming experience."

To get involved, contact the Springfield Peace Center at (937) 327-3977.

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