Center provides free volunteer mediation training

Anyone considering a volunteer opportunity in the community can become a volunteer mediator through Oakland Mediation Center (OMC) under the auspices of the State Court Administrative Office. OMC is accepting applications for the next 40-Hour Community Mediation Training to teach volunteers to conduct mediation services for Oakland County residents, businesses, and organizations. The training is designed to teach participants the skills necessary to act as mediators in facilitating the resolution of general civil disputes from the initial consultation to writing the mediation agreement. OMC conducts mediation on-site at the Oakland County district courts in Pontiac, Rochester, Southfield, and Waterford and at their Bloomfield Hills office. The next training will be held July 9, 16, 23, 30, and Aug. 6 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The cost of the training is free, with a service requirement of 40 half days per year, for 2 years. Certificates will be given when the service requirement has been met. "OMC's mission is to help the community peacefully resolve conflict through mediation and education," said Bonnie Hanes, OMC executive director. "These trainings teach powerful skills and techniques to resolve conflict and prevent escalation. By resolving conflicts, we are creating a more peaceful community." The training will take place at the Oakland Mediation Center in Bloomfield Hills and includes a continental breakfast, lunch, snacks, and course materials. The training will be delivered by Kenzi Bisbing, OMC's education manager, who has conducted over 120 professional mediation and conflict resolution trainings. She is a highly skilled mediator and has facilitated hundreds of mediations across Arizona, Texas, Ohio and Michigan involving family, divorce, guardianship, truancy and community related issues. Applicants should have an interest in working in their community, can commit to the service requirement and have the ability to commute to one or all of the District Courts listed above. The deadline to apply is Tuesday, June 18. To view all requirements, information, and to apply, visit www.mediation-omc.org or call 248-338-4280. Published: Mon, Jun 10, 2013