In-depth, 40-hour mediation training for community members interested in becoming mediators for the Dispute Resolution Center or learning new skills for use in the workplace and community, is scheduled for May 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10.

The program includes training in conflict theory, communication, collaborative problem solving, interest-based negotiation, and interest-based mediation.

The training integrates lectures, presentations, demonstrations, and coached mediation role-plays. Continuing Legal Education credit, Western Washington University credit and Educational Service District 114 credit are pending.

The $545 cost includes daytime meals.

The Dispute Resolution Center, a United Way and Bainbridge Foundation agency, provides Kitsap County residents with several options for resolving conflict. Since 1991, the Center has offered mediation to resolve issues involving landlords and tenants, neighbors, employees and employers, consumers and merchants, parenting plan modifications, child custody, divorce and small claims. The Center also offers victim-offender mediation for juvenile offenses, mediation between parents and teens, and support of school peer mediation programs.

For more information about the training or the center’s services call (360) 698-0968, e-mail drc@kitsapdrc.org or visit www.kitsapdrc.org.