Bruderhof Foundation: Breaking the Cycle
Bruderhof Web Team
violence prevention program that has been presented in high schools
throughout the New York metropolitan area.
Convinced that the best way to stem the rising tide of school violence is
to work toward preventing it, the Bruderhof Foundation launched "Breaking
the Cycle" in late 1999 - a program that it has since brought into dozens
of public and private high schools, mostly in the New York area. Simple
in its approach but highly popular, this program stresses honest
communication and forgiveness as a way of resolving conflicts - and, just
as important, easing the tensions that linger after them.
Sharing the real-life experiences of two internationally known advocates
for peace and reconciliation - Johann Christoph Arnold, a Bruderhof
counselor and best-selling author, and Steven McDonald, a NYPD detective
shot and paralyzed in the line of duty -"Breaking the Cycle" brings hope
to tens of thousands of teens each year. It also underscores the efforts
of principals and teachers to counteract school violence by proactively
addressing its most common roots: bullying, gossip, racism, and other
forms of intolerance. As part of the program, free books on overcoming
fear and prejudice, nurturing forgiveness, and related themes are offered
to participating students.
Here's some letters responding to the program from students on the
Bruderhof Foundation website:
Christina, student, Kingston, NY
The program was very powerful and appealing. I have never seen our
auditorium that silent before. Your message about nonviolence was very
inspiring.
Carlie, student, Mineola, LI
Forgiving is such an important element for dealing with violence,
especially during these past few years. I admire Detective McDonald and
Mr. Arnold for dedicating their lives to spreading the message of
forgiveness and nonviolence to students across many diverse areas. I
would also like to thank the Bruderhof Foundation for giving all the
students in the school free books. The Bruderhof Foundation, along with
Detective McDonald and Mr. Arnold are truly spreading the idea of hope in
such a time of uncertainty and fear.
Jamese, student, Peekskill, NY
Upon reading the book "Why Forgive", provided by the Bruderhof Foundation
at our school's presentation, I was touched by many of the stories that I
read. Although I was skeptical before reading the book because I am a
rather selective reader, I actually enjoyed reading about many of these
real life people who I consider to be true heroes. Their ability to
forgive others responsible for their unfathomable losses, and to lead a
life dedicated to helping others overcome their anxieties, is truly
inspiring.
Read more about the activities of the Bruderhof Foundation at
http://www.bruderhoffoundation.org
© 2003 Bruderhof Foundation