A free workshop which discusses the nature of conflict and how it impacts everyone’s life and their community is being offered in West Sacramento at the Arthur F. Turner Community Library on Wednesday, April 6th from 6:30 to 8 pm. No reservations are required. This workshop is sponsored by the Yolo County Library and the Yolo Conflict Resolution Center (YCRC).

The YCRC is a non-profit organization which is already operating in the cities of Davis, Winters, and Woodland. They have now begun offering their community mediation services to the residents of West Sacramento. Community mediation is an impartial method which helps participants to communicate their concerns to each other.

During this process, options for resolution are clarified and mutually accepted solutions are developed. The nature of conflict is discussed, as well as how it impacts our lives and communities. Attendees will learn how to turn conflicts into opportunities to connect with people.

You may have a roommate disagreement, or a concern with rent, security deposits or cleaning fees. Maybe your neighborhood has conflicts which involve noise, landscaping concerns, or even parking problems. If so, the YCRC can help you resolve your problem.

Community mediation is voluntary and confidential. It is less expensive and time-consuming than litigation and arbitration would be. The YCRC is offered for a fee of $50 per participant or on a sliding scale based on income. Residents can contact YCRC by phone at (916) 692-9316 or by visiting their website at www.yolocrc.org.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer mediator for YCRC, training is available. A Conflict Resolution and Mediation Certificate Training is the first step to become a YCRC volunteer mediator. Training is also beneficial for anyone who wants to learn skills for effective communication and dealing with conflicts.

The 40 hour training program consists of lectures, discussions, communication skill exercises and mediation process role-playing. Community mediation volunteers should reflect the diversity of the community with regard to age, race, gender, ethnicity, income and education. They are not required to have academic or professional credentials.

Source: Yolo Conflict Resolution Center.