In Loving Memory of Our Founder, Melvin Bledsoe

It is with profound sadness that I share the news of the passing of our beloved founder, Mr. Melvin Bledsoe, a man of extraordinary compassion and understanding. Melvin transformed unimaginable personal tragedy into a mission of hope, healing, and prevention. The team at P4P will honor him in memory and practice, to ensure his work lives on.

In 2010, Melvin’s son, Carlos, was recruited and radicalized by violent extremists. That radicalization culminated in an attack on a military recruiting center in Little Rock, Arkansas, which claimed the life of one soldier and resulted in Carlos receiving a life sentence in prison. For many, such grief might have meant silence or despair. But Melvin chose a different path: he turned his pain into purpose, dedicating his life to ensuring that no other parent would have to endure what he and his family experienced.

Out of this resolve, Melvin founded Parents for Peace. His vision was clear; that by breaking the stigma, raising awareness, and offering support to families affected by extremism, lives could be saved, and futures could be rewritten. Through his leadership and advocacy, countless parents across the United States and beyond have found guidance, strength, and a community of understanding at P4P.

Through his vision and tireless advocacy, Parents for Peace became a refuge for countless families across the United States and beyond. Many found strength, guidance, and hope in Melvin’s compassion. His voice carried the authority of experience and a deep humanity that inspired belief in healing and change.

Since 2016, P4P has operated the nation’s leading free and confidential helpline for families concerned about a loved one’s radicalization—providing interventions, skills, and resources that help bystanders act early and protect their communities. Melvin’s vision and advocacy enabled P4P to grow into an organization setting national standards for intervention services, bystander support, and care coordination.

Today, Parents for Peace stands as a living legacy to Melvin’s vision. His story reminds us that even from the depths of suffering, purpose and healing can emerge. His compassion, courage, and commitment to protecting others will continue to inspire their work for years to come.

Parents for Peace extends their deepest condolences to Melvin’s family and loved ones during this time of mourning. Parents for Peace remains committed to carrying forward the mission he began - to help families and protect communities.

Click here to read an article about Melvin in Homeland Security Today.

Click here to read Melvin's obituary.