Volunteers are vital to the success of the Conflict Resolution Center. With their help, neighbors and families find peaceful resolution. They also leave with the understanding that conflict resolution work is richly rewarding and helpful in their own relationships and community.
People considering becoming a volunteers will need excellent communication skills, a commitment to respect exchanges between people, an ability to assist people in solving their problems, basic computer skills and the ability to maintain confidentiality and impartiality. We particularly encourage people who speak languages in addition to English to apply. You must be 18 years or older to apply. Please contact our center at BCRC@bellevuewa.gov to apply to become a volunteer.
Training
This fall, the Bellevue Downtown Library is hosting a variety of classes uniquely designed to promote peace and understanding within oneself and one’s community. Taught by “The Listening Lady,” Marci McReynolds, former manager of the City of Bellevue Conflict Resolution Center (BCRC). Sponsored by the City of Bellevue in partnership with King County Library System. This year will mark the tenth year of collaboration between the BCRC and KCLS, and BCRC’s 30th year of serving the community this year.
The Ways to Peace: October and November 2026
Bellevue Public Library
Ways to Peace: The Art of Re-Centering
Tuesday, October 06, 5:30pm–7:30pm
How do we find our calm center when there is so much going on in our lives and in the world?
In this interactive class, we will explore our parasympathetic and central nervous systems, practice breath, and body techniques. In addition, we will learn about life practices that help you relax, focus, relieve stress, and reduce cortisol.
Ways to Peace: The Art of Listening
Tuesday, October 27, 5:00pm-7:30pm
Wednesday, October 28, 5:00pm-7:30pm
Wednesday, November 4, 5:00pm-7:30pm
Doors will open at 4:00pm.
There is lots of talk in the world, but who is listening? And do we really know how? In this highly interactive class, attend each class to become aware of habits we unconsciously have when it comes to listening (or not). We will learn ways to quiet our minds and focus on the person speaking and then respond and ask questions to help the other person feel heard, understood, and able to go deeper into what they are sharing with us.
There is also a new focus to this popular class, “listening to differences,” which is not only beneficial to one’s brain health, but also that of our diverse community. Becoming more artful as a listener helps one in social interactions, builds confidence and calm within, and strengthens relationships with work, family, and friends.
Ways to Peace: The Art of Engaging in Democracy
Tuesday, December 1, 5:30pm-7:30pm
How do we resolve our differences, in our homes, workplaces, or our government?
The dialectic process was one of the original "Arts of Liberty" in ancient Greece, England, and early U.S., when people living in a democracy traditionally practiced making decisions across differences.
For more information, check out 1.kcls.org/peace.
24-hr Conciliation Training: 2027 Session Dates TBA.
- This free training is a prerequisite to volunteering with our program. As a volunteer conciliator, you will assist callers in understanding their issues, exploring options and developing strategies for problem resolution. In this training, you will learn conflict theory, advanced communication skills, negotiation, conflict coaching, and procedural tools.
- If you would like to participate in the 2027 conciliator training, please send an email to BCRC@bellevuewa.gov. If you have any additional questions, call (425) 452 - 4091.
Community Events / Training
BCRC partners with the King County Library System to offer workshops and events to build skills in the areas of listening, challenging conversations, civil discourse, and cross-cultural communication. Workshops are held at libraries around Bellevue. Please Email us at BCRC@BellevueWA.gov for further details and scheduling information.