Peace (2011 Q1)

Featured beneficiary in the PEACE category for first quarter 2011:

The mission of Nonviolent Peaceforce is to promote, develop and implement unarmed civilian peacekeeping as a tool for reducing violence and protecting civilians in situations of violent conflict. They envision a world in which large-scale unarmed civilian peacekeeping using proven nonviolent strategies is recognized as a viable alternative in preventing, addressing, and mitigating violent conflicts worldwide. NP's primary strategy for achieving this vision is the creation of space to foster dialogue.

NP currently maintains peacekeeping teams on the ground in Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Sudan, including peacekeepers from twenty nations. This color-coded world map illustrates the extent of NP's presence and work.

NP is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

SPECIAL ISSUES

Many beneficiaries each quarter sail through the vetting process. In other cases, special issues arise that are part of the final decision. In such cases, FBB reports the issue in a brief note marked "Special Issues" on the beneficiary page to inform members' decisions.

FBB Executive Director Dale McGowan served two short-term contracts as US Communications Coordinator for Nonviolent Peaceforce in 2007 and 2009. During the review process, the FBB board determined that featuring NP would not contravene FBB's bylaws, which include strict guidelines regarding potential conflicts of interest. Though his experience was helpful in informing the review process, Dr. McGowan has no current connection with or influence on NP, and no special consideration was required regarding the Foundation's selection standards.

As always, FBB members are urged to review the resources below to make their own decisions when distributing donations.

LEARN MORE ABOUT NONVIOLENT PEACEFORCE
Website:	NonviolentPeaceforce.org
Annual Reports:	NP Annual Reports
IRS 990 forms:	NP 990s

ABOUT THE SELECTION PROCESS

Foundation Beyond Belief highlights ten charitable organizations per quarter. Among other considerations, beneficiaries are chosen for efficiency, effectiveness, moderate size (annual budget under $10 million), compatibility with humanist focus on mutual care of this world and this life, and geographic diversity. All categories feature secular organizations with the exception of "Challenge the Gap," which gives members the option of supporting one progressive, non-proselytizing religious organization each quarter.

Active members can help us choose future beneficiaries by researching and nominating charities and by discussing, debating, and advocating for the causes of their choice through our social network and discussion forums. Final decisions are made by the Board, but collective member input is among the most important considerations.

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