American Friends Service Committee

The American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) is a Quaker-founded nonprofit organization established in 1917. It is dedicated to promoting peace, justice, and human dignity through nonviolent social change. AFSC operates both in the United States and internationally, focusing on areas such as economic justice, peacebuilding, immigrant rights, and prison reform .

Mission and Values

Guided by the Quaker belief in the inherent worth and dignity of every person, AFSC works with individuals of all backgrounds to challenge unjust systems and promote lasting peace. The organization emphasizes active nonviolence, equality, and the transformative power of love in addressing social issues .

Key Programs and Focus Areas

AFSC’s work is organized around three strategic goals:

1. Just and Sustainable Peace: Efforts to end militarism and violence, protect civic space, and uphold human rights globally.

2. Just Economies: Advocacy for equitable access to resources such as food, housing, healthcare, and education, while challenging economic inequalities.

3. Just Responses to Forced Displacement and Migration: Providing legal services, humanitarian relief, and support for migrant-led organizing and advocacy .

Historical Highlights

AFSC has been involved in significant humanitarian and social justice efforts throughout its history, including:Providing relief to civilian victims during and after World War I.

• Assisting refugees during World War II and aiding in post-war reconstruction.

• Supporting civil rights movements in the United States.

• Advocating for the rights of conscientious objectors.

In recognition of its humanitarian work, AFSC, along with the British Friends Service Council, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1947 .

Contact Information

For general inquiries or to learn more about AFSC’s programs:

• Website: www.afsc.org

• Main Office Address: 1501 Cherry Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA

• Phone: +1 (215) 241-7000

• Email: afsinfo@afsc.org

For media inquiries:

• Media Relations Director: Alexis Moore

• Phone: +1 (215) 241-7060

• Email: news@afsc.org

AFSC also has regional offices across the United States. For example, their Des Moines, Iowa office can be reached at:

• Address: 4211 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312

• Phone: +1 (515) 274-4851