Stories of Support

We are proud to share a few stories highlighting the extraordinary ways in which the Seeds of Peace community continues to advance our mission.

Thanks to the remarkable efforts of our supporters, we strive forward, creating dialogue and finding spaces for positive change to take root. We are deeply grateful for their enthusiasm and dedication.

Lili-Michal Greenslade

In the summer of 2014, Lili decided she wanted to learn about other narratives connected to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. She took part in the 2014 Bridges to Peace walk, raising $300. Inspired by walking alongside young people from all sides of conflict, Lili chose to dedicate her Bat Mitzvah project to raising funds for Seeds of Peace. With generous support from her family and friends, and Seeds alumni in attendance, Lili raised enough funds to bring a bunk of Palestinian and Israeli girls to the Seeds of Peace Camp.

“I don’t for a minute think that my contribution will solve a problem that has been around for hundreds of years. But if this project changes the futures of six girls, and they return to their communities to impact hundreds of people positively, it’s possible the ripples will be felt in an entire region.”

Mike Reid – “Miles for Peace”

On May 16, Seeds of Peace counselor Mike Reid (“Mikey Beans” as he’s known at Camp), set out on a 7,000-mile motorcycle journey across America dedicated to raising support and awareness for Seeds of Peace. From his first moments as a counselor in 2015, Mike came to appreciate the unique opportunity that the Camp program provides diverse groups of teenagers in engaging beyond lines of conflict. Mimicking the thirst for adventure that inspires many of his campers, Mike and his co-pilot Sigríður Ýr Unnarsdóttir (Sigga) travelled from the Pacific to the Atlantic and back again, raising $1,050 in scholarship support that will help fund an international camper in 2017. On finishing his journey, Mike noted:

“Miles for Peace was a reflection of my continued commitment to the organization that has changed my life and the lives of so many young leaders.”

Jennifer Dertouzos & Misha Mehrel

This year, having observed exacerbated social divisions in their communities, Jennifer and Misha, a Seeds of Peace Counselor, were moved to action. On July 23, they organized the first Bridges to Peace Walk in Miami, aimed at bringing people together, creating community, and encouraging dialogue. Participants walked across The Venetian Causeway, raising over $4,000 dollars. Their commitment continued, with the two organizing a stand up comedy event. The evening, hosted at the Wynwood Café in Miami on July 20, sold out online with profits supporting Seeds of Peace. Thanks to their efforts, the Seeds of Peace community in Miami continues to grow.

“It’s good timing because people want to channel their energy toward peace or the greater good. It’s of the moment.”

Onnit

Onnit is a wellness company that, through products and actionable information, aims to inspire peak performance in individuals. In 2015, Onnit sought to partner with an organization that shared their belief that genuine change and motivation is self-starting. Recognizing in Seeds of Peace the value of empowering young people to become decision makers, Onnit has continued this exceptional partnership.

With every purchase made through Onnit, online customers are presented with information regarding Seeds of Peace, and the opportunity to donate. Believing that our individual optimum cannot be achieved without a collectively peaceful environment, Onnit has contributed over $40,000 to Seeds of Peace in 2016.