In 1984, George Nakashima had the opportunity to purchase the largest and finest walnut log he had ever seen, and sought to use the immense planks to their fullest potential. He dreamed then that if Altars for Peace were made for each continent of the world, as centers for meditation, prayer and activities for peace, the world would be a better place.

George Nakashima believed that through the gifting of concrete symbols of peace, tables formed by Nature, aspiring to the Divine, worked by human hands and consecrated to Peace, universal peace will some day permeate the entire globe.

The Foundation is now housed in the Minguren Museum by a generous gifting of property by Marion Nakashima, is staffed entirely by volunteers and welcomes suggestions for future sites, as well as donations to the cause.

Negotiations have begun with the Desmond Tutu Peace Center in Capetown, South Africa to house another Altar for the continent of Africa.