Bringing emotional and mental health to communities impacted by generational trauma requires deep empathy, sustained effort and innovative solutions rooted in love and understanding. Transforming justice systems long reliant on retributive practices instead of restorative justice calls for bold advocacy and the courage to reimagine fairness and accountability. Breaking the chains of repressive cultural norms to empower young Indigenous women takes vision, perseverance and a community-wide belief in the inherent strength of every individual. And standing firm as peace advocates in conflict zones requires extraordinary resilience, hope and an unshakable belief in reconciliation. 

Across the U.S. and around the globe, vital nonprofits are rising to these challenges with an unrelenting drive to heal, restore and unify. These organizations are motivated by a profound calling that connects justice, compassion and a sense of shared humanity. As Ethel Kennedy wisely observed, “We’re placed on earth and somehow given a sense of responsibility to give life and love and help to others.” This ethos inspires the Wayfarer Foundation to support nonprofits dedicated to spiritually-rooted service that embody the belief that transformative social justice is not only possible — it is essential. Here are some of their stories.

A new vision for justice and healing

Imagine a justice system centered on restoration instead of punishment, where the needs of victims and offenders alike are met with compassion and the goal of reconciliation. Nonprofits like Freedom Community Center, St. Louis and One for Justice are making this vision a reality by working to mend broken relationships, rebuild trust and create systems that reflect the dignity of all people.

Mass incarceration has a profoundly nefarious effect on our social and economic structure and tears at the very viability of our democracy. One for Justice is a new coalition of philanthropists, foundations, entrepreneurs and industry leaders committed to reimagining America’s justice system. This year’s national conference convened people with different skills and interests to share their respective visions for building a better world. Mike Milton, Executive Director of the Freedom Community Center, a St. Louis-based nonprofit founded to dismantle systems of oppression that inflict harm and trauma on Black communities, was inspired by One for Justice’s spirit-rooted focus. 

“Mass incarceration is literally rooted in bondage and oppression [yet] spirituality is about liberation. It’s about love and belonging in community,” he said. “We’re whole beings … although they might try to capture our bodies, they cannot capture our souls, hearts and spirits.”

Unlocking the potential of indigenous youth 

In communities shaped by centuries of cultural repression, young Indigenous women are finding pathways to empowerment thanks to the MAIA Impact School in Guatemala, which honors their heritage while fostering opportunities for growth. 

MAIA empowers generations of young Indigenous women through an educational model of academics, culture, socioemotional intelligence, personal development and family engagement. Each year, 250 young girls attend the MAIA School, achieving a 97 percent graduation rate. “In Guatemala, many women live in a culture of silence, where their opinions and ideas are not considered in important decisions,” said Vilma Saloj, Director of the MAIA School. “That is why MAIA exists … to provide this platform for access to quality education for young Indigenous girls.”

This education model forms the bedrock for nurturing powerful female leaders who will drive transformative change. “Dreams are the most beautiful thing a person can have. It’s about your imagination of yourself in the future,” said Heidi, a first-year student at the school. “I want to graduate and then continue studying. I want to go abroad to study and learn new things. And I hope to be able to achieve it.”

Spirituality centered in the pursuit of peace

In places scarred by violence, courageous peace advocates like those supported by the Tanenbaum Center for Interreligious Understanding continue to stand as beacons of hope. Supported by spiritual resilience, they lead efforts to bridge divides, rebuild communities and advance reconciliation.

Tanenbaum’s Peacemakers in Action are 29 men and women tackling violence head-on in conflict zones around the world. The Network provides them with support, resources and a framework to connect with each other.