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One Family’s Story

“They were by my side every day he was gone.”

My son joined Antifa and The Youth Liberation Front his freshman year of high school. He was arrested multiple times for violent assaults tied to his involvement in these groups. He ran away from home multiple times and became involved with drug and alcohol abuse. When he was still a teenager, he was recruited online to fight with a Syrian militia group.

He trained and fought in Syria for three years. Parents for Peace was by my side every day that he was gone. We weren’t sure he’d make it back alive—but thanks to expert intervention, we were able to bring him home.

Today, he’s rehabilitated, working as an EMT, and rebuilding his life. I believe our family could not have achieved this success without the expert and intensive support we received.

In Their Own Words: The Families We Support

“There is nothing like Parents for Peace out there.”
“Everyone I’ve interacted with at Parents for Peace has been so professional and supportive—the support has truly meant the world to me.”
“A top-rate organization, dealing with an extremely complex and still-evolving issue.”
Read More Family Stories

Extremism doesn’t start with violence. It starts with pain—identity struggles, isolation, and unmet needs. That’s why we help families and professionals step in early, with compassion, not judgment. Because prevention is possible. And healing is, too.

What Experts & Allies Are Saying

From clinicians and researchers to national organizations and state partners, professionals across the country are recognizing the urgent need for early intervention—and the real-world impact of our work.

“This presentation will save lives.” — Participant, Harvard Medical School Conference on School Mental Health
“Really great insight about focusing on the perpetrator or would-be perpetrator; makes me feel like we have more tools to solve this problem aside from gun control.” — Participant, Harvard Medical School Conference
“Some of the nicest, most generous people you'll ever encounter. My lab at Georgia State University is proud to collaborate with them, thanks to support from DHS and the Department of Homeland Security.” — Dr. John Horgan, Distinguished Professor, Georgia State University
“Fighting antisemitism in 2025 is not for the faint of heart... What a privilege it is to fight alongside the inspiring, tenacious warriors of this cause.” — Sara Colb, Deputy Director, ADL New England
“Your session created one of the most memorable and impactful moments of the summit. You helped students understand not only the roots of radicalization, but also how healing and empathy build bridges.” — Event Organizer, Combat Antisemitism Movement
“We heard nothing but wonderful feedback on your presentation.” — State Agency Representative, Behavioral Threat Conference

Meet the People Behind This Work

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Downloadable Flyers

These free, shareable flyers are designed for families, schools, medical professionals, and frontline responders—offering clear signs and actions to prevent extremism before it turns to harm.

Our Story

Parents for Peace was co-founded by Melvin Bledsoe after his son Carlos was radicalized and carried out a deadly act of terrorism. His goal was simple and urgent: no other family should face the pain he lives with.

What began as a small support group has grown into a national helpline and intervention network. Today, Parents for Peace is recognized for its frontline expertise in prevention, de-radicalization, and family-based intervention. We continue to help families and communities step in early—before hate turns to harm.

What We Do

Help Families Intervene Early

We run a confidential helpline for families concerned about a loved one on the path to extremism. It’s never too early to reach out—compassionate, expert guidance is available.

Learn About Our Helpline

Train Frontline Professionals

We equip educators, clinicians, and law enforcement to recognize early warning signs—before ideology turns into violence. Through tailored trainings and talks, we help communities step in early.

Book a Speaker or Training

Support Victims—Especially Jews Facing Antisemitism

Extremism doesn’t just recruit—it harms. We support survivors and communities targeted by hate, especially Jews facing rising antisemitism. You are not alone.

See How We Support Jewish Communities

Take the First Step

A nonprofit helping families and professionals intervene before extremism takes root.

Extremism begins in isolation. Prevention begins with connection.

Join a community that believes in early intervention, compassion, and support—before it’s too late.

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Monthly updates, expert insight, and stories that show prevention is possible.

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Get Involved

Your support helps us intervene early, prevent violence, and build resilience where it’s needed most. There are many ways to take part.

Host a Training or Talk

Invite us to speak in your school, organization, or community—online or in person. Let’s build resilience together.

Request a Presentation

Volunteer or Intern

Join our mission by contributing your time, skills, or professional expertise.

Apply Now

Refer Someone

Know someone who may need help? Refer them to our free, confidential Helpline.

Refer Now

Make a Donation

Every contribution fuels early intervention, family support, and public education.

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In the News

Parents for Peace has been featured in national media as a trusted voice on early intervention, family-based prevention, and the human cost of extremism.

Featured by:
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