The WHMC Mission

To provide dispute resolution services and education services to empower individuals and build communities that view conflict resolution as a catalyst for positive change. Through our mediation and education programs, WHMC provides tools and opportunities for people to resolve their differences in a safe and neutral environment.

 

WHO is WHMC?

Founded in 1988, West Hawaii Mediation Center(WHMC) strives to provide an array of high quality conflict resolution services to community members and organizations throughout West Hawaii. WHMC provides a neutral setting for parties in conflict to have a confidential dialogue. With the assistance of two trained neutral mediators, parties will be guided through a process of information gathering, identifying issues and areas of agreement and work toward finding a mutually satisfactory agreement.

These services are available and affordable through the consistent and dedicated efforts of trained volunteers and staff combined with ongoing public/private funding partnerships.

WHMC is a member of a statewide organization, Mediation Centers of Hawaii (MCH). This organization is made up of five independent, non-profit mediation centers which are each partially funded by the State Judiciary via the Center for Alternative Dispute Resolution.

A word from the Executive Director:

Well, it’s been a little different these days — an understatement surely. Our staff is mostly working from home, and staggering our time in the office. We’ve transitioned quickly to offering video-conference mediations via zoom; training our volunteers in the new platform, and amending processes and forms as necessary. We believe, in the midst of social disturbances like Covid-19, our work to transform conflict and resolve disputes is all the more important.
We mediators know that stress, anxiety, and fear are dangerous mixers for a conflict “cocktail.” Add physical isolation, the ever-present keiki, economic instability, and sickness; the potential for straining the relationships around us grows exponentially. Miscommunication increases, and feelings are hurt at a more rapid pace. In short, this month has the potential to ware down our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. And in these circumstances, conflicts will increase.
And yet, we peace advocates are optimistic folks. And so we ask: how can we thrive in ever-changing circumstances? How do we not allow the waves of fear and anxiety to erode the strength of our families, our communities, our state? Here are a few ideas:
  • Breathe: this seems too simple to work, but taking no less than 3 deep belly breaths helps reset the nervous system, which breaks through the restriction one feels when fear and anxiety take hold.
  • Connect: Reach out to one person a day – a friend, a co-worker, a family member. Take a few minutes to “check-in” with others.
  • Move: Physical Exercise is the #1 activity that physiologically reduces stress and anxiety. While maintaining proper distancing, go for a walk, a run, or arrange a space in the house for exercises. Do this five times a week.
  • Share your emotions: our relationships strengthen and trust is built in our ability to share honestly how we feel. Focus on yourself, and avoid casting judgments.
  • Listen: conversely, we all have a desire to be heard in difficult circumstances. Listening, without trying to “fix” things, is often all that’s needed to reset a relationship.
  • Limit your news and social media intake: overwhelmingly so, news and social media outlets drive narratives that solidify fear and anxiety. Stay up to date, but place parameters on your consumption.
Let’s take time to care for ourselves and those around us. Let’s practice kindness and compassion, honesty and generosity. Mahalo for your continued support. We are wading into the waters of uncertain times, but I believe these are the times that new creative ideas are fostered. I hope you continue to journey with us.
Peace and Aloha,
Eric Paul
Executive Director

 

WHMC is a proud member of:

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