On Earth Peace Prepares for New Staffing During Board of Directors' Biannual Meeting

Saturday, October 25, 2025, may be referenced in the future as the day OEP initiated a huge step forward to change the future. The board made well-informed decisions to actively move to hire additional staff to meet the demands of program expansion. The board received reports on current programs, approved a budget for 2026, and spent time in board formation for the next year. 

The board engaged with staff to learn about new initiatives, including OEP’s support to the Deportation Defense Response Team and fundraising for legal and mutual aid. The Gun Violence Prevention Action Team has been spearheading efforts to inform and encourage all members of the Church of the Brethren to practice safe gun storage through our partnership with BeSMART. The new editions of Agape Magazine for children teach nonviolence techniques and include inspiring stories and activities. All these are in addition to continuing our Kingian Nonviolence training initiatives, including our effort to train 1000 Brethren in Kingian Nonviolence, and our vibrant internship program for young adults. These times are calling for the ways of Jesus to be put into action more fervently. 

The board made a plan to hire new staff positions which are being constructed to include work in administration, communications and marketing, and development. These critical positions will increase our staff capacity to develop and walk with leaders and communities who work for justice and peace (OEP’s mission).

The board called new leadership for 2026 with Beverly Eikenberry and Jennie Waering being identified as co-chairs. We expressed gratitude for Laura Hay, 2025 co-chair, as they concluded their work on the board.

The board welcomed Howard Ullery as the representative from the Church of the Brethren’s Council of District Executives. We also wished well four of our board members as they move on to other endeavors, such as pursuing doctorates and chairing other boards. A special tribute was created for Irv Heishman, who served competently with wisdom and passion for two full terms on the board. 

If you want to make a significant difference in our world through nonviolent leadership, serving on the board of On Earth Peace may be where you belong. We are a hardworking, fun-loving, and effective board where members experience the Beloved Community in action. If you feel inspired to join the board to support OEP for the next 3-5 years, for more information, please contact Beverly Eikenberry: [email protected] or Carol Lindquist: [email protected] or Marie Benner-Rhoades: [email protected].