General Info

Roots of Peace is a humanitarian organization dedicated to eradicating landmines worldwide and rehabilitating the land to make it productive once more. Founder Heidi Khn became gravely aware of the landmine crisis upon the tragic death of Princess Diana in 1997. Motivated by her own appreciation for the gift of life and the Princess's compassion and commitment to global demining, Khn began Roots of Peace in honor of Diana's memory and to ensure that her work would continue. The roots of our organization are in the heart of California's agricultural grape growing region. We are committed to the vintner's legacy of respect for the earth and its power to give and sustain life. With the generous support of the entire California wine industry, along with many other public and private organizations, Roots of Peace is beginning to make progress toward realizing our goal of turning "Mines into Vines." The grape vine is a symbol of celebration for the "gift of life". Whether the juicy nectare of fresh grapes, raisins, or a fine bottle of wine the bountiful harvest represents the seeds we have in common rather those that separate us. The vine is an ancient metaphor for peace -transcending religions and political boarders. Converting "Mines to Vines" helps innocent farmers and families avoid a lethal harvest of bloodshed for future generations.