Dispute Resolution Center of Thurston County
  • Home
  • About
    • About the DRC
    • Sobre nosotros
  • Mediation
    • Mediation Services
    • Eviction Resolution
    • Restorative Justice Facilitated Dialogue
  • Facilitation
  • Youth
    • Youth Resources
  • Training
    • Training Services
    • Upcoming Trainings
    • Training Scholarships
  • Volunteer
    • Get Involved
    • Board Opportunities
  • Donate
    • Give Today
    • Capacity Building Initiative
  • Contact

Update - The DRC's Response to the Coronavirus Situation

3/12/2020

0 Comments

 
The Dispute Resolution Center takes the safety of our clients, volunteers and staff very seriously and want to share with you updated information on how we are responding to the continually evolving ​Coronavirus/COVID-19 public health situation.

The DRC is currently maintaining regular business hours and scheduling services, with some modifications.  We have  made the decision to cancel or postpone several trainings, and are cancelling our April 5th fundraiser, TheToast.  For information on the status of specific trainings, please contact us at info@mediatethurston.org or call (360) 956-1155.
​
​We continue to emphasize the need for staff, volunteers and clients to adhere to infection control protocols that are in place, including:
  • staying home, if sick;
  • reviewing and abiding by posted reminders on effective hand-washing technique;
  • utilizing social distancing throughout the office and in Thurston County Courts;
  • using hand and surface sanitization products onsite and in Thurston County Courts; and,
  • adopting a ‘no handshake or hug’ practice. 

We are developing contingency plans to prepare for changing circumstances, which may include reduced office hours, and further cancellation or postponement of mediations, facilitations, trainings and events. 
 
We are actively monitoring the latest recommendations and directives of our local and state authorities and we encourage you to stay informed: https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/Coronavirus.

At this time, we are reminded of our deep need as individuals to connect and communicate, especially in stressful times.  While it is true that we need to be creative in our ways of connecting at this time, we still must provide and seek support from one another.  The work of a community mediation center such as ours is rooted in our belief that our strength in connections inform our resilience as individuals and as a community.  None of us is operating in isolation.  Together, we can commit to continuous communication, to creative problem solving, and importantly, to seeking understanding and common ground. 
 
Questions?  Let us know.  Thank you for your patience, understanding and support.
 
Jody M. Suhrbier
Executive Director
0 Comments

The DRC's Response to the Coronavirus Situation

3/8/2020

0 Comments

 

The Dispute Resolution Center takes the safety of our clients, volunteers and staff very seriously and want to share with you how we are responding to the continually evolving ​Coronavirus/COVID-19 public health situation.

The DRC is currently maintaining regular business hours and scheduling services as usual. 
​
We have placed some common sense infection control protocols into place, including providing posted reminders on effective hand-washing technique as well as providing hand and surface sanitation options for use onsite and in Small Claims Court.  We are encouraging  a 'no handshake' practice during meditations for the time being.

We are developing contingency plans to prepare for changing circumstances, which may include reduced  office hours, and possible postponement of mediations, facilitations, trainings and events.  We will communicate with clients regarding cancellation policies and adopt a flexible approach to ensure both client and volunteer health needs are addressed within this changing landscape.  We are actively monitoring Washington State Department of Health, as well as, Thurston County Public Health Department recommendations.  We will announce any program or operational changes through all of our regular channels including email, social media and our website.

Questions?  Please contact Jody Suhrbier, DRC Executive Director, at (360) 956-1155 or email info@mediatethurston.org 

Infection Control Practices for Clients, Volunteers and Staff

​
0 Comments

Infection Control Practices for Clients, Volunteers and Staff

3/8/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
To help prevent the spread of infection and protect the health of our clients, volunteers and staff - as well as the wider community - please follow these infection control practices:
  • Wash your hands often. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds.  Handwashing guidelines are posted in the DRC office and restrooms.
  • Avoid touching your face, especially with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid people who are sick. Steer clear of illnesses if at all possible.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes and dispose of tissues in a waste bin.
  • Clean things. Disinfect objects and surfaces often. Conciliators and mediators, avail yourselves of the resources at-hand when starting a shift or a session.
  • Stay home if you're sick.
  • Stay informed. Follow and share trusted sources of accurate public health information:
             https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/Coronavirus

0 Comments

Jody Suhrbier Named to NAFCM Board

12/13/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
​Jody Suhrbier, Executive Director of the Dispute Resolution Center of Thurston County, has been elected to the Board of Directors of the National Association for Community Mediation (NAFCM).
 
The NAFCM Board is made up of a select group of individuals from across the United States who have a passion for community mediation, its advancement, services, and potential.

Picture
​The purpose of NAFCM is to support the maintenance and growth of community-based mediation programs and processes.  NAFCM supports peacemakers by being the hub for advancing the work of community mediation, aggregating the wisdom of community mediation and amplifying the voice of community mediators.
 
Before joining the NAFCM Board, Suhrbier previously served for two years as Co-President of Resolution Washington, the state-wide coalition of dispute resolution centers.
 
Suhrbier has led the Dispute Resolution Center of Thurston County (DRC) since November, 2016.  The DRC has served Thurston and south Mason Counties residents since 1991 through mediation, group facilitation, training and youth services, serving nearly 5,000 people in the past year.

0 Comments

Community Conflict Resolution Month

10/4/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
Washington Governor Jay Inslee, the Thurston County Board of Commissioners, and the Olympia City Council have each proclaimed October as Community Conflict Resolution Month.  October 17th has been designated, internationally, as Conflict Resolution Day.

Please join us, and all 21 member of the Resolution Washington network, in celebration of the power of strengthening connections through communication and conflict resolution.

We want to express our gratitude to everyone who helps advance our vision of a South Sound community that has a uses healthy and respectful conflict resolution skills.  Your involvement and support - as a volunteer, a donor, a community partner - is making this vision a reality - one connection at a time.

As we strive to strengthen our service capacity in response to increasing and evolving community needs, your advocacy, time and financial support is critical in this effort.  

Each year, we help thousands of our neighbors move through conflict with confidence, integrity and respect.  This is an achievement worth celebrating - this month and throughout the year.

Picture
Thurston County Commissioners Tye Menser (left), John Hutchings (center) and Gary Edwards (right), presented their proclamation for Community Conflict Resolution Month to DRC Board member Robin Campbell and Community Engagement Manager Joe Sanders at their September 24th meeting.
0 Comments

Learn Skills to Prevent & Resolve Workplace Conflict

9/9/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
Is there an elephant in your office?Workplace conflict, lack of communication and incivility are common in many organizations, but, too often, ignored or avoided.  Unaddressed, they can have significant negative consequences for employers - emotional costs to you and your team, as well as financial costs:
  • Decreased job performance and productivity
  • Poor customer service
  • Staff dissatisfaction, grievances and turnover
  • Time-consuming hassle and stress

Join us for a special breakfast workshop to learn insights and skills to effectively address workplace conflict. 
Tuesday, October 22nd, 2019       8:00 – 9:30 a.m.
SPSCC Lacey Campus, 4220 6th Ave. SE , Lacey, WA
Check-in, coffee and networking begin at 7:45, with the program beginning at 8:00.
Breakfast provided by Budd Bay Cafe.

Cost: $35
Information & Registration
0 Comments

Steve Tilley Honored as DRC's Outstanding Volunteer

8/2/2019

0 Comments

 
​Congratulations to Steve Tilley, a member of our DRC Family for more than 20 years, who was honored at our recent annual volunteer appreciation picnic as our Outstanding Volunteer for 2019.
PictureSteve Tilley, the DRC's 2019 Outstanding Volunteer
"When we were considering who to honor as this year's outstanding volunteer, the themes that came up in regard to Steve were: his tireless dedication, steady presence, and quiet humility," emphasized DRC Executive Director Jody Suhrbier.  "Steve is one of the first people I mediated with as an apprentice. I was then and continue to be impressed by his calm demeanor and genuine interest in a fair process."
​
"Steve has an authentic interest in ensuring that the processes he uses support long-term health and well-being for those touched by our services - whether that may be a child whose parents are separated or an incarcerated adult seeking to make reparations in our community."

To read a special profile of Steve recently published by Thurston Talk, click here.

Picture
The work of the Dispute Resolution Center would not be possible without the efforts of more than 140 volunteers. These dedicated individuals collectively gave more than 5,000 hours of their time in the past year to support the mission of the DRC.

Thank You to all of our volunteers for your dedication to helping create a more civil and peaceful community!
0 Comments

Strengthening Connections - our 2019 Community Impact Report

7/2/2019

0 Comments

 
We have a vision at the Dispute Resolution Center of a South Sound community that has and uses healthy and respectful conflict resolution skills.  It takes all of us - connected - to make that happen.
Picture
The Dispute Resolution Center's new Community Impact Report, "Strengthening Connections", has  been published and is being distributed throughout Thurston and Mason Counties.

This year's report highlights the many collaborative partnerships that, collectively, are helping advance our vision and creating a more civil and peaceful community.

We hope you will take a few moments to read the online version of our report. 

If you would like to receive printed copies of the report, please contact Joe Sanders, Community Engagement Manager, at jsanders@mediatethurston.org.

​Thank You to all of the individuals, businesses, foundations and organizations who have made an investment in the mission and work of the DRC through their financial, in-kind and service partnership support.

To see a complete list of our 2018 supporters, click here.

0 Comments

Strengthening Connections at the 2019 DRC "Toast"

4/21/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
The ballroom of the Hotel RL in Olympia was filled with community leaders and members of the DRC family who came together on Sunday, April 14th to celebrate and support the work of the Dispute Resolution Center.  This year's theme, "Strengthening Connections", highlighted the many personal connections and community partnerships that help advance the DRC's vision - a South Sound community that has and uses healthy and respectful conflict resolution skills.
​
Thank You to all of our table hosts, volunteers, business partners, vendors and, especially, our generous donors, who made this event a success.

Our guests at the 2019 edition of The Toast:
- Enjoyed savory hors d'oeuvres from the Hotel RL chefs, sampled sweet treats from local chocolatiers and bakeries, and sampled libations from local wine-makers, cider-makers and distillers;
-Joined us in honoring Rev. Carol McKinley, recipient of this year's Evan Ferber Peacemaker Leadership Award;
- Heard from DRC Executive Director Jody Suhrbier and our keynote speaker, Olympia High School teacher Jason "Blue" Peetz, addressing the theme of "strengthening connections";
- Gave generously to support the DRC's efforts to build a more civil and peaceful community;
- and enjoyed re-connecting with long-time DRC supporters, as well as introducing first-time guests to the work of the DRC.

Click on the gallery thumbnails below to view the full-size photos:

0 Comments

Jesse Laird Joins DRC as New Volunteer Manager

4/19/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
​Jesse Laird has joined the Dispute Resolution Center's staff as our new Volunteer Manager.  In this role, he will lead volunteer recruitment, retention and coordination activities, as well as manage the DRC's mediator practicum program.

A native of Portland, Jesse earned Masters degrees in Conflict Resolution from Portland State University and International and Multicultural Education from the University of San Francisco.  He brings to the DRC extensive experience in developing and implementing educational curricula, and has created and presented trainings covering a wide variety of topics, including conflict resolution, facilitation and advocacy.  
 
"Stepping into the role of Volunteer Manager, Jesse brings several years of experience in conflict resolution as an educator," notes DRC Executive Director Jody Suhrbier.  "He has been a curriculum designer and teaching faculty, which has honed his interest in strengthening adult learning with a tailored, person-to-person approach.  We look forward to Jesse's active engagement with our DRC family and the broader community."

Jesse can be reached at jlaird@mediatethurston.org .

0 Comments
<<Previous
Forward>>
    Picture

    Author

    Joe Sanders,
    Community Engagement Manager

    Archives

    February 2022
    August 2021
    March 2021
    August 2020
    July 2020
    May 2020
    March 2020
    December 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    April 2019
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    June 2018
    April 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    April 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016

    Categories

    All
    Events

    RSS Feed

Affordable solutions for resolutions.

Contact Us
We empower people to restore and build relationships.
Picture

Getting Around

Home
About
Mediation
Facilitation
Youth Services
Training
Support
Upcoming Trainings
Training Scholarships
Become A DRC Mediator

Contact
Blog
VOLUNTEER PORTAL
​2604 12th Court SW, Suite B
Olympia WA 98502

PO Box 6184
Olympia WA 98507

Hours
Monday–Friday 9am–4:30pm
ERP Program: Monday–Thursday 9am–5pm

Federal Tax ID: 94-3130662
Donate

Contact US     (360) 956-1155

Stay informed about our services and trainings.

subscribe to Our mailing list

Our Business Partners

The generous support of our many business partners helps make the work of the DRC possible.
Please support these local businesses that support peace in our community.
WSECU
Capitol Pacific Reporting
The Chehalis Tribe
Goldstein Law Office
Olympia Federal Savings
Heritage Bank
Twin Star Credit Union
Coldwell Banker
Hhotel RL
Titus-Will
Pettit Property Management
Port Blakely
Our Affiliate Partners
Local, state-wide and national.
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Site Design © 2016 Debi Bodett