About us

Aktion Suehnezeichen Friedensdienste, or Action Reconciliation Service for Peace (ARSP), is a German peace and volunteer service organization founded in the aftermath of World War II to confront the legacy of the Nazi regime.

At its onset, the mission of ARSP was to volunteer in countries affected by World War II and to work with the peoples who suffered during the Nazi regime. The founders of ARSP called upon young Germans to work for peace through social services in these countries as a sign of atonement.

The mission has evolved. It now includes learning from Germany's history, taking a stand against racism and hatred today, and creating a positive future for everyone. We believe that by acknowledging the past and learning from our history we can work for a better world.

ARSP's mission is accomplished through long-term and short-term volunteer programs. In the long-term program approximately 170 volunteers are currently serving in 12-month assignments in social service and educational projects in Eastern and Western Europe, Israel, and the United States. The short-term program is comprised of about 400 young people each year who volunteer for two to three weeks in summer camps, working at memorial sites, on Jewish cemeteries, and in social service programs.

ARSP works for:

- Reconciliation and International Understanding

- Peace

- Remembrance

- Responsibility

- Fighting Racism, Anti-Semitism and Discrimination

ARSP has been sending volunteers to the United States since 1968. They work in projects for peace and social justice and for reconciliation with the Jewish community. To read more please click here.

ARSP celebrated its 40th anniversary   During the weekend from October 21st to 25th 2009 Action Reconciliation Service for Peace celebrated its 40th anniversary in the United States. Over 100 guests took part in our different programs in New York and Philadelphia. In several discussions and presentation invited politicians, members, friends and former volunteers of ARSP showed different views on the Holocaust and the work of the organization... To read more please click here.

Tobias Weihrauch worked for the Trinity Presbyterian Church in New York City in 2006 and worked especially with homeless people.

In only four days my one-year volunteer service with action reconciliation service for peace comes to an end. As I look back on a time full of unique experiences, excitement and anxiety. My return to Germany doesn't only imply excitement to see my family and Friends and to challenge new duties and responsibilities. After the last twelve month I feel like a part of the community and that makes it hard for me to leave the place I fell in love with and all new friends, which became part of my life...

To read more please click here.