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:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.