Our Inspiration

PeaceWorks all started with the desire to use technology as a tool to help those helping others.  In 1992, as a recent computer science graduate, Nolan Andres,  

Founder of PeaceWorks Technology Solutions, met José on a  plantation in Guatemala. After spending an evening with José and his family eating supper (Nolan later realized that José had gone without that evening) and learning about their life of subsistence on the plantation, Nolan came away determined that his life would make a difference for the Josés of this world. Returning from Central America, he deferred his Computer Science masters scholarship to study Peace and Conflict Studies at Conrad Grebel University College.  As Nolan became familiar with the area, he began to connect with organizations that existed to make a positive difference, and when he realized that they were universally having trouble finding affordable computer support, he responded. What started out as volunteering eventually became working for small stipends, and finally a business. Meeting other like-minded individuals, the business grew into one that effectively helps these organizations to use computer technology effectively and affordably, enabling them to pursue their vision.