Peacemaking is the creative process of engaging with others to make positive and lasting change. Check out our criteria for more information about how we will use this definition to identify Prize winners.

We're looking for projects that are well underway, ongoing, or have already taken place. Peacemaker projects should reflect our Prize criteria which include: evidence of compassion (understanding and caring about other people), courage (taking risks to help others), and collaborative change (working with others to improve schools and communities).

Start by reading our criteria and then check out examples of peacemaking profiles. It never hurts to apply and the process doesn’t take long!

Eligible projects are those that have already been completed, are in process, or are ongoing. The focus of the Prize is recognizing the change and impact that young people have already led. So, while applications need to focus on existing or past projects, feel free to let us know what other projects you are planning as a peacemaker.

Citizens or legal residents of the United States who are between the ages of 8 and 22 years old (as of January 1, 2013) are eligible to apply for the Prize. All projects must have taken place in the United States. Family members of Peace First staff and board members are not eligible.

Prize winners each receive a Peace First Fellowship: $50,000 over two years to further their education and peacemaking work. They also receive training, mentoring and professional development.

Prize money will be disbursed over two years and can either support an ongoing peacemaking project with a registered nonprofit organization or be used toward winners' education. All uses of funds are subject to the approval of Peace First.

Semi-finalists will hear back from us by late May, and we will narrow it down to finalists in late summer. Winners will be announced in the fall.

Still have questions after reviewing the information on our website? Email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Or call the Prize Team at 617-261-3833 x309 if you do not have email access. Be patient as it may take us a bit to get back to you!

The Peace First Prize is about more than identifying winners. It’s an opportunity to inspire other young people to become peacemakers and learn about resources for peacemaking. Check out our Digital Activity Center to find peacemaking tools and the main Peace First homepage to find other ways to get involved with Peace First’s peacemaking movement.