The American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) is an affiliate of the
Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). It was founded in 1917 by
Quaker conscientious objectors to assist civilian victims of World War
I and to provide young conscientious objectors a means to alternative
service (such as emergency medical personnel in battle zones). In 1947
it received the Nobel Peace Prize along with the British Quakers. The
organization was a strong supporter of the American Civil Rights
Movement. Officers of the AFSC corresponded with Dr. King and the
Southern Christian Leadership Conference in support of various
endeavors, including the Poor People’s Campaign and opposition
to the Vietnam War. The AFSC continues to remain an advocate for peace
and social justice around the world.