MADRE began in 1983, when a group of American women poets, teachers, artists, and health professionals traveled to Nicaragua to witness the impact of the US-sponsored Contra War. Today, MADRE has made over $78 million in grants to grassroots, women-led organizations and women’s rights activists worldwide. Through the Building a Just Peace Program, MADRE responds to the drivers and impacts of armed conflict by resourcing women and girl peacebuilders on the frontlines.

Supporting women’s leadership in conflict resolution is amongst the most powerful approaches to achieving lasting peace. Together with partners, MADRE delivers life-saving, gender-responsive resources to help communities prevent, survive, and rebuild from war and occupation—and equips women and girls to meaningfully participate as leaders in peace processes.