A Time to Reflect... and to Look Forward

In the age-old tradition each of us undergoes in our own way, this time of year leads to reflection on the year ending, and anticipation of the days and months ahead.
 
As you know, the Dispute Resolution Center has entered a new organizational chapter with the retirement of Founding Director Evan Ferber.  This next chapter builds upon a solid foundation - twenty-five years of commitment and dedication to conflict resolution, effective collaboration and relationship restoration.  

The DRC's impact on the greater Thurston County region is immense and has created fertile ground in which to continue to expand this vital work.  I am delighted to say that I see so much evidence of new opportunities to serve our community.
 
Earlier this month, community members came together at a free DRC workshop - "Having Tough Conversations in Challenging Times" - to learn how to move through conflict with confidence, integrity, and respect.  I heard so many meaningful dialogues that day about how we - as individuals and as a community - can work to get beyond divisiveness, and to build bridges, person to person. 
 
There is an important truth that I have seen proven again and again.  It is that there is much to gain when we engage in true conversation in our families, our neighborhoods, our communities, our country and our world.  There is always something to gain when we enter into dialogue - seeking to understand.  Conversely, there is much to lose when we don't.
 
Every one of us has capacity to learn how to manage conflict in our lives more effectively.   We must all consider what we can do to deepen our understanding of one another and identify all that we share in common.  

You can make a meaningful difference in our community through your donations and volunteer service, and by seeking to understand those around you, one conversation at a time. 
 
I look forward to moving into this shared future together, with you.
 
Jody Suhrbier
Executive Director