Project PEACE Celebrates 20 Years of Building a Safer Arlington

Published on May 19, 2026

Current ProjectPEACE Director, LaToya Young, with her colleagues and past Project PEACE directors.

Arlington County’s Project PEACE recently marked a major milestone—20 years of work to prevent and address domestic, dating and sexual violence. The anniversary was celebrated April 28, 2026, during Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM), with a community event that highlighted the program’s impact and future direction.

A Legacy of Partnership and Impact

Launched in 2006, Project PEACE (Partnering to End Abuse in the Community for Everyone) serves as Arlington County’s coordinated response to interpersonal violence. For two decades, the program has brought together public agencies, nonprofit organizations and community partners to:

Improve survivor safety
Hold abusers accountable
Support the well-being of residents and visitors impacted by violence

This collaborative approach has connected survivors to essential resources, including crisis advocacy, emergency shelter, counseling and legal services. It has also advanced prevention through education and outreach.

Marking 20 Years: Celebration and Recognition

Senator Barbara Favola and Project PEACE Director LaToya Young celebrate the adoption of Senate Resolution 159.

The April anniversary event brought together County leaders, advocates and partners to reflect on progress and reaffirm a shared commitment to prevention and survivor support.

Arlington County leadership recognized the milestone during SAAPM. The Arlington County Board issued two proclamations—one recognizing Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month and another honoring Project PEACE’s 20th anniversary—underscoring the County’s continued commitment to addressing sexual and domestic violence.

Recognition extended beyond the local level. The Virginia Senate adopted Senate Resolution 159, introduced by Project PEACE co-founder Sen. Barbara Favola, commending the initiative for 20 years of service. The resolution highlighted Project PEACE’s approach to prevention, survivor services and system accountability, and acknowledged the efforts of its many partners in strengthening community safety.

Survivor-Informed, Community-Driven

As highlighted during the anniversary, Project PEACE continues to evolve. A refreshed blueprint, shaped by community input and aligned with national best practices, centers survivor voices in planning and decision-making.

“The people closest to the challenges are also closest to the solutions,” said Project PEACE Coordinator LaToya Young. “Survivor voices remain central—not just symbolic, but embedded in our planning, policy and program design.”

This approach helps ensure services remain equitable, responsive and effective. It also strengthens coordination and community engagement.

A Model That Continues to Grow

Since its founding, Project PEACE has expanded to meet emerging needs, including increased focus on youth experiencing dating and sexual violence. Its success relies on strong collaboration among partners such as Doorways, law enforcement, courts, schools, faith communities and human services providers.

Together, these partners form a coordinated network designed to respond to violence, support survivors and promote prevention.

Help Is Available

County leaders emphasized that support is available. Project PEACE and its partners provide confidential, trauma-informed services for those impacted by violence.

If you or someone you know needs help, reaching out can be the first step toward safety and healing.

Looking Ahead

Twenty years after its founding, Project PEACE continues to show the power of collaboration in building a safer community. With renewed focus and sustained commitment, Arlington County is positioned to build on this work and ensure all community members can live free from violence.