Reaching Out to Youth...

Since 1984 DRC has been serving the needs of youth, in school and the community. Working with students, teachers and staff, DRC provides programming in the areas of communication, conflict resolution, violence prevention, victim awareness and empathy, anger management and mediation.  Our programs address the basic communication problems shared by many of our youth, assisting them to develop fundamental life skills to ensure success in their adult lives.  Working with parents, educators, and the community, DRC teaches more than just good communication skills.  We educate youth in the effective and appropriate management of conflict by teaching mutual respect and an appreciation for diversity.  These efforts contribute immeasurably to creating an atmosphere of support for the peaceful resolution of conflict within our schools and communities.

P R O G R A M S

K-12 School Peer Mediation & Conflict Resolution Programs
The use of Peer Mediation in schools has emerged across the nation and in other parts of the world as an alternative means of dealing with students' conflicts.  DRC provides training and support for school mediation programs in all four counties.  The positive effects upon schools that support mediation range from a more cohesive school climate to a marked reduction in various types of behavioral difficulties.  Schools have found characteristics of the mediation process, such as communication, neutrality, empowerment and confidentiality, to be useful in enabling students to take responsibility for resolving conflicts on their own.  In Peer Mediation, students negotiate their differences with the assistance of trained Peer Mediators.  The goal of a mediation session is a written agreement that serves to structure the future relationship of the students. Peer Mediation Programs are implemented in the Elementary through College levels. 

Excell & Victim Impact Panel (VIP) Programs
Currently available only in Orange County, the Excell/Victim Impact Panel is a restorative justice program that educates juvenile offenders on the impact of crime on the victim, the community, their families and themselves.  The program provides five 2-hour sessions that helps participants focus on problem solving, effective communication, and helps them to develop victim empathy.  Constructive decision-making skills and non-violent conflict resolution are also taught.  Participants are also educated on the ripple effect of criminal behavior and ways to repair the harm done.

Youth Achievement, Recognition & Development (YARD) Program
Available only in Sullivan County, the YARD Program provides conflict resolution, effective communication and violence prevention training to enable youth to manage and resolve conflict constructively and effectively.  Kids trained in conflict resolution processes can better manage their own challenges and problems while serving as role models and educators for their own peers, family members and the community at large.

Crisis Intervention Hotline
Available only in Sullivan County, this program provides crisis intervention, supportive peer dialogue, and awareness of available resources.  The Hotline staff is trained to help clarify concerns, explore options and make referrals when necessary.  They can give assistance, awareness and support in the areas of abuse, HIV/AIDS, alcoholism, depression, divorce, drugs, gangs, sexuality, pregnancy, violence and suicide.

Youth Community Service Program
Currently available only in Orange County, this program serves adolescents who have been brought before Family Court, are on probation, or have been referred by the local police departments.  The goal is to hold youth appropriately accountable for their behavior while providing them with a meaningful and appropriate opportunity to repair the harm done to the victim and the community.  Participating youth are assigned to not-for-profit and human service organizations to complete hours within a structured period of time, where they can experience positive role modes, gain a sense of self-worth, and develop both life and work skills.  It is expected that the youth involved in community service will contribute positively to their community and further connect them to caring adults.  There is no cost to youth.

Special Education Mediation
Available in all four counties, Special Education Mediation services are available to assist in resolving differences between the school district and parent/guardian of a student who is physically, mentally or emotionally challenged.  Choosing to participate does not limit other alternatives such as an impartial hearing, and there is no charge to participate.

Make DRC your first call...
DRC can help you plan Peer Mediation Training, Conflict Resolution Curricula, and many other conflict management workshops for students K to12.  DRC can provide conflict management training as well as workshops specifically designed for parents, teachers, administrators, and auxiliary staff.

The First Step…
Simply call the DRC at 845.294.8082 for more information or to set up an appointment.  You can also contact us by e-mail by clicking here.