Parents For Peace breaks the cycle of extremism by building resilience. Our flagship helpline empowers families to address the radicalization of a loved one. Leveraging insights from our work with affected families and individuals, we also contribute to efforts to educate the key stakeholders to proactively counter extremism as a public health issue.
Parents for Peace was co-founded by Melvin Bledsoe after his son Carlos was radicalized and committed a deadly act of terrorism on US soil. His goal: no other family should experience the trauma he continues to wrestle with. The organization began as a support group for other families who had lost loved ones to extremism and soon expanded to offer a confidential helpline to assist families grappling with new cases of extremism. Because of our unique frontline intervention expertise and track-record, Parents for Peace has become a recognized expert in the space of de-radicalization and counter-extremism.
Discover the dedicated and diverse team working tirelessly to combat extremism. Our multidisciplinary team includes experts in coaching, social work, psychology, law enforcement, and more. We also employ Exit Peer Specialists—individuals with lived recovery experience from extremism—who provide invaluable peer support to those at risk. Learn more about our team.
