Our History

Vision for The Shalom Project emerged from conversations between leaders in Lancaster city who had similar ideas for a local service-learning program. Motivated by love for the Lancaster community and a commitment to empower young adults to grow and serve, the conversation grew into a clear vision: to form intentional communities of young adults who affect social change through lives of service.

After several years of dreaming and brainstorming, talking with local and regional organizations, and inviting passionate people to join the advisory board, we launched our first program year in August 2015.

The questions that sparked the first conversations continue to inform The Shalom Project today:

• In what ways can we grow in love of God, neighbor, and self?

• What does it mean to invite people into a life of service?

• What opportunities can we create for young people to explore faith and vocation outside of a traditional church setting?

The Shalom Project was founded by several local Anabaptist-Mennonite congregations. While our organizational values are rooted in Anabaptism and we remain closely connected to the Mennonite church, we are an ecumenical organization that welcomes partnership with any organization or participant who desires to seek wholeness and well-being.