Transform Conflict with Restorative Circles: intro & facilitator training

Come learn about a powerful process that can bring healing to conflicts in any setting - from families and work teams to schools, organizations and neighborhoods.  Sometimes when conflicts arise we need both support and structure to put compassion into action.  We believe this simple but powerful form of Restorative Circles (RC) is a perfect tool.  

RC is a restorative justice practice that empowers communities to deal with conflicts in a way that efficiently and effectively meets the needs of the people involved and deepens connections among them. It is an inclusive process: There are always at least three parties present in a circle (author, receiver, community), along with a facilitator who is part of the community.   And there are three phases to the process (pre circles, circle, and post circle) that support people in developing mutual understanding, taking responsibility, and co-creating a sustainable action plan.

Developed in Brazil by Dominic Barter, RC is used in organizations, schools, court systems, communities, workplaces and families around the world. Learn more here.  RC is beginning to take off in Seattle and surrounding areas as well. [For example, in the immediate aftermath of a Seattle police officer's fatal shooting of John T. Williams, a First Nations wood carver, a Restorative Circle was held between Police Chief John Diaz, top department officials, and the grieving family. ] http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2014113565_diazreport03m.html

Your facilitators: Susan Partnow has been studying with Dominic Barter since 2010. She brings her skills as a certified mediator, Sr. Compassionate Listening facilitator and Sr. Organizational Development and Training consultant together in this basic introduction to Restorative Circles.  Andrea Brenneke, attorney and mediator,  is also an apprentice with Dominic.