Our History

 

The Peace Center for Forgiveness and Reconciliation, Inc. (PCFR) is a not-for-profit
organization based in Indianapolis, IN. When it received official 501(c)3 status
in 2014, it fulfilled the dream of Founder & Executive Director, Mr. Kizito D. Kalima
 

After surviving the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, Mr. Kalima’s

anger and desire for revenge nearly cost him his life. When he discovered that
forgiveness freed him from hatred, he dedicated his life to helping other victims
of violence. While earning a degree in criminal justice, he envisioned a place
where victims and perpetrators of violence could come together to reconcile,
heal, and learn to live in peace. The PCFR is that place.

 

To create the PCFR’s programs, Mr. Kalima reached out to experts working
with survivors and perpetrators of injustice in Indianapolis and around the
world. Building upon their experience and programs, the PCFR has become a
leading venue for transforming hostility, fear, and conflict into long-lasting
peaceful relationships.

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The PCFR divides its wide array of programs and services into two categories:
1) Genocide Awareness and Prevention 

2) Peace Rebuilding Projects for Youth and Adults.
Since its beginning, PCFR has educated the public about “Genocide Awareness
and Prevention.” This education started with Mr. Kalima’s powerful public
speaking, which continues to be a central feature of PCFR. It then added a
traveling museum and memorial. The PCFR is currently expanding to offer
workshops and seminars.

The PCFR has also been growing its “Peace Rebuilding Projects for Youth and
Adults.” The youth programs are for young people who want to learn to live in
peace with others through interactions divided into the categories of “schools,”
“peace-sports,” “music and dance,” and “poetry.” The adult programs start by
improving language and job skills crucial to recently resettled refugees. Adults
can also take programs on mental health, social skills, and spiritual growth.
Many families consisting of first and second-generation survivors of conflict are
involved in both adult and youth programs.

Read more about the two types of programs below.

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