Better Agreements is a not-for-profit Community Mediation Center whose mission is to increase individual and community problem-solving skills through education and training and to ensure all have access to alternative dispute resolution processes.

FIRST STEP Community Peacebuilder Program

Reducing Gun Violence in Roanoke City requires all of us:  government, agencies, faith communities and trusted neighbors who show up, speak up and intervene for those they care about.  The FIRST STEP Program will equip 100 Trusted Community Volunteers and Credible Messengers to serve as Community Peacebuilders to identify, de-escalate, relate, and intervene in the earliest stages of community conflict to reduce violence.  CLICK HERE to complete the application to participate in the upcoming trainings and program.

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Qualified applicants will be trusted individuals who are already actively supporting their community.  Preference will be given to individuals with connections to those statistically most affected by gun violence in the City of Roanoke.  There are no other age, educational, or experience requirements.

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For More information check out this Program Information Sheet.

Practical Conflict Resolution Skills Training
Friday, August 19th from 8am - 5pm

In this 8-hour training, you will learn and experience powerful conflict resolution concepts and techniques. You will have the opportunity to observe and participate in a mediation process for resolving a typical conflict. Through presentation, interactive discussion, activities, and role play we will cover conflict theory & history, discovering your personal conflict styles, the causes and benefits of conflict, basic mediation principles, and proven techniques for reframing, resolving, and transforming conflict into understanding, collaboration, win-win outcomes, and peace.  This class is great for anyone who interacts with other people: at home, at work, or when out in public!

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If you want to become a Certified Mediator in Virginia, this class is one way to start.  For more information about certification please contact us at admin@betteragreements.org or call (540) 552-1200.