Annual Bartlett Run/Walk Supports a Unique Response to Conflict and Violence in Chicago Neighborhoods

Bartlett, IL - When Play for Peace hosts its annual celebration of the U.N.'s International Day of Peace, the World Peace Day Fall Run/Walk on Saturday, September 24, the organization will be doing more than raising funds for its programs in Chicago and around the world. Donations will help place powerful tools in the hands of children and youth in neighborhoods around the city - tools that can help resolve conflict, prevent violence, and create laughter, compassion and peace.

Using cooperative play to bring children and youth from different backgrounds together, Play for Peace creates safe spaces where they can forget about the fear that keeps them isolated and often causes them to engage in conflict and violence. The organization trains youth leaders from middle schools and high schools to facilitate cooperative, or educational, games with younger children. The youth learn leadership skills and serve as positive role models for younger students.

"There is no doubt that our work creates powerful changes in the children and youth who participate in our programs," said Play for Peace Executive Director Sarah Gough. "Last year, one of our certified trainers used Play for Peace games as a method to help prevent retaliation from a group of Harper High School students whose friend had been shot and killed in a fight."

Play for Peace trainer Richard Rutschman, Ed.D., of the Northeastern Illinois University Center for College Access and Success, described the approach he and his team used. "We used the Play for Peace games and something called motivational interviewing to help the students think about what to do in that difficult situation. Play for Peace creates experiences that help people learn to change their emotional reaction to others they might be fearful of. Playing a game helps them deal with fear and opens the possibility of better thinking. There was no retaliation and the violence ended there."

While Play for Peace works in a handful of Chicago neighborhoods now, Gough sees the opportunity to expand the organization's programs. "The World Peace Day Fall Run/Walk helps us raise funds to support our work," she said. "We would love to bring our programs to more communities."

The family-friendly Fall Run/Walk will take place at the Bartlett Nature Center in Bartlett from 11 am to 3 pm on Saturday, September 24. The 5k run and 1k nature walk lead participants on scenic trails at the nature center. The nature walk begins with a Bubble Run and includes a treasure hunt along the course and foam pit at the end of the route.

Registration is $25 for adults, $15 for teens and $10 for children two and older, and includes a drawstring bag, t-shirt, access to activities, and an international food festival. Kids can decorate pumpkins and visit booths sponsored by the U.S. Coast Guard, police and fire departments. To register, visit https://www.crowdrise.com/PeaceDayRunWalk2016.