About Us

Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) is a grassroots, worldwide movement dedicated to building peace in ourselves and in our homes, schools, institutions and communities. 

We seek to release everyone’s innate power to positively transform ourselves, and in so doing, transform the world. 

 Envisioned in 1975 by the “Think Tank”, a group of inmates at Greenhaven Prison, in partnership with the Quakers. The program is based on the Quaker belief of an inborn power for peace in everyone, and draws its participants and its trainers from all religions, races and walks of life. 

avpusa.org

• Alternatives to Violence Project is an experiential program, helping people change their lives.
• It is a community program, offering a new approach for community groups, businesses, social service agencies, schools, youth organizations and all who would like to participate.
• It is a prison program, helping inmates learn new skills and attitudes that lead to fulfilling and crime-free lives.
•  It is a program for everybody!