The River Phoenix Center for Peacebuilding takes the approach of addressing conflict and violence with a continuum of prevention, intervention and restorative strategies involving youth and adult populations, including those healing from the otherwise lasting impact of trauma.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Evening at Our 12th Annual FUNdraising Gala!

Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 6:00 PM Gainesville Woman’s Club

Get ready for an unforgettable night of celebration and giving, right in the heart of the holiday season! Our past Galas have been renowned as one of the most exciting parties in town—and we would be thrilled to have you be a part of it.

Cease the moment and enjoy the good company, entertainment, meaningful conversations and a great cause, all while kicking off the holidays in style. We can't wait to share this special evening with you!

UNITY in CommUNITY - March and Rally for Peace & Justice!

Our dream for the day:

A bright afternoon at Bo Diddley Plaza, where people of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures gather in unity for peace and justice. Children, parents, and grandparents join together to celebrate our shared humanity.

The day begins with introductions, followed by a kids' corner filled with face painting, games, and handprints. We then march down University Avenue, waving banners and chanting messages of hope and solidarity, a vibrant tapestry of voices and cultures.

After the march, the park comes alive with music, poetry, dance, and laughter. Families connect, children play, and joy fills the air, embodying the spirit of unity.

Throughout the day, we share meals, conversations, and new friendships, building understanding and community. As evening falls, we gather in a circle, with one simple wish:

May Peace Prevail in our Homes. May Peace Prevail in our Schools.
May Peace Prevail in our Community. May Peace Prevail on Earth.

“The City of Gainesville’s Department of Community Reinvestment is a proud sponsor of the UNITYin CommUNITY – March for Peace and Justice through its Downtown Events Program grant.”

Meet our International Fellows

A couple of months have gone by since we greeted Gainesville's new International Fellows representing Albania, Sri Lanka, The Maldives, Pakistan and Myanmar (Burma)! Our city now has four host agencies including Peaceful Paths, the Hippodrome Theatre, Greater Gainesville International Center and us, The River Phoenix Center for Peacebuilding! They will be with us for four months, until the beginning of December.

Thru the Community Solutions Program, we've been matched with fellows that work close to our field of "expertise" in areas ranging from human rights, peacebuilding, violence against women and healing through the arts. It's been a big adjustment for them but we are all ready, willing and able to share our work and learn from one another.

We are grateful to the CSP for choosing us to host these amazing International Fellows!