A brief overview of the group's origins and continuing efforts

People for Peace is a citizen's group formed in 1986 around the idea that world peace begins with each of us. In those days of the waning cold war between the US and the Soviet block, ordinary people, including those in Waupaca, hungered for peace and ways to make connections within their own communities and across the globe.

People for Peace started with a small lantern float on Shadow Lake, inspired by Japanese tradition, on or near the date of the August 6 anniversary of the Hiroshima bombing in Japan. It honored those who lost their lives in war and reminded the living of the need for peaceful ways to solve conflict. Activities of the group have included high school peace studies groups, Earth Day activities, book studies, peace vigils, speakers, debates and concerts. Each year the group gives a $500 scholarship to a graduating senior.