Peace building requires experience, knowledge and skill and, more than anything, it requires patience, a strong will and determination to stay on track.
The Mediators Achieving Peace (MAP) program provides that knowledge and couples it with inspiration and support to encourage students to carry on with their mission to find peaceful resolutions. And student mediation works! Middle school aged kids don’t always listen to their parents, teachers or principal about how to solve their problems. But kids will listen to other kids.
A Win-Win for Everyone
Targeting middle school aged students, MAP volunteers teach students how to resolve their differences and provide an acceptable alternative to violence. They focus on identifying conflict, learning how to really listen, the importance of neutrality, the role of the mediator, ground rules and process of mediation. Students begin to understand how to brainstorm solutions versus turning to violence and most importantly they learn how to come to an agreement.
It’s a win-all-around – once students learn how to mediate, they in turn become the mediators for their fellow students.
For the schools, MAP reduces violence and creates a more peaceful atmosphere and it frees up the counselors’ and principal’s time from having to deal with minor squabbles.
What Can You Do?
Become a mediator for peace volunteer.
Encourage associates and partners to participate. |
