The Peace Center, a 42-year-old nonprofit that was set to close by the end of the year, announced Wednesday it will remain open.
The Langhorne Borough-based nonprofit cited an outpouring of community support since the news of closing came out in August.
The organization, which provides violence prevention and conflict resolution programs, will continue its work with new leadership and a new board of directors.
Barbara Simmons, who retired as executive director five years ago, will return to the role effective Oct. 1.
Simmons previously served for more than 30 years and will lead the center’s efforts to develop new partnerships and opportunities.
The incoming board will be led by Dr. Barry Truchil, a former board president and current member.
“My heart has always been with The Peace Center and all the people who helped bring amazing, successful programs into the schools and in our communities,” Simmons said. “We are facing such division in our communities throughout the nation. The Peace Center has played a vital role in teaching peacebuilding skills to children, parents, community and business leaders, and closing down this important work, which is needed now more than ever, had many of us feeling despair.”
The Peace Center will remain in its historic Richardson House location in Langhorne Borough, Simmons confirmed.
The Gene and Marlene Epstein Humanitarian Fund has offered to match every donation to The Peace Center up to $10,000 to support its operations.
“The Peace Center has been serving our community for four decades, quietly reducing violence, teaching conflict resolution, and giving children the tools to feel safe,” Gene Epstein said. “We all have a responsibility to step in. By supporting the Peace Center, we are not just funding programs — we are giving our children a future free from fear, bullying, and hate.”
The Peace Center previously announced its closure in August.
Outgoing Executive Director Danny Thomas citing a lack of bookings for the fall and cuts to federal funding and policies.
Thomas will be taking on new endeavors and was thanked by The Peace Center for leading the organization through COVID-19 and the 2020 social justice movement.
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“Under his leadership, we were able to pivot as needed in order to be relevant and present as he navigated uncertainty,” the organization said.
To support The Peace Center through the Gene and Marlene Epstein Humanitarian Fund Challenge, visit thepeacecenter.org.
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