On the 37th anniversary of her groundbreaking work in violence prevention, Erica Ford, a prominent advocate for community wellness and social change, is releasing The Peace Doctor’s Playbook: 365 Days to a Stronger, More Powerful You. The book, set to be available on December 12, 2024, offers practical tools for individuals and communities to address emotional challenges, build resilience, and foster peace.
The release date coincides with a pivotal moment in Ford’s career: December 12, 1987, when she dedicated herself to transforming the lives of vulnerable youth. Priced at $37 as a tribute to her 37 years of activism, the book provides a roadmap for cultivating peace as a daily practice.
Ford’s work is deeply rooted in New York City, where she has pioneered innovative approaches to public safety and violence prevention. As the founder of LIFE Camp, Inc., she played a key role in creating the NYC Crisis Management System (CMS), a citywide network of violence intervention programs that has contributed to significant reductions in gun violence. Her efforts in Southeast Queens, particularly through LIFE Camp’s Violence Intervention and Prevention model, have led to remarkable achievements, including a 562-day streak without shootings in the area.
To celebrate the launch of her book, Ford will host an event in Jamaica, Queens, on December 13, 2024. Local leaders and advocates will gather at the Shekinah Youth Chapel Allen AME Church to discuss strategies for strengthening community bonds and promoting peace. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase signed copies of The Peace Doctor’s Playbook and participate in conversations about creating sustainable change in NYC neighborhoods.
Ford’s influence extends beyond her local community. Through initiatives like NY Peace Week and the Peace Mobile, she has provided trauma-informed services across the city, addressing the root causes of violence and fostering collective healing. Her leadership in the National Black & Brown Peace Consortium has also secured federal funding for violence prevention programs nationwide and established the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention.
Recognized with numerous accolades, including the MIT Elevate Fellowship and a declaration of “Erica Ford Day” in NYC, Ford’s work embodies the principles outlined in her new book. The Peace Doctor’s Playbook draws from decades of experience to offer readers daily exercises, affirmations, and strategies for navigating challenges and building inner strength.
Through her book and ongoing advocacy, Ford hopes to inspire others to embrace peace as a lifestyle and join a broader movement for change. With her focus on creating safe, thriving communities in NYC and beyond, she continues to be a driving force for systemic transformation and personal empowerment.
Signed copies of The Peace Doctor’s Playbook will be available at the December 13 event, with additional copies accessible online starting December 12.
