In this issue of the PCRC Forward Progress our theme is health. As a former registered nurse, the concept of health/wellness is very much a part of my own motivation for working with PCRC over the past years. Our work here mirrors the two closely related areas of prevention and intervention in health issues.

Years ago, PCRC began its work in the community as a neutral third party (a role similar to a medical professional) offering a non-adversarial approach to resolution for people struggling with conflicts of all kinds. We have always framed conflict as an expected experience, part of everyday life when there are varying points of view, limited resources and differing needs and values. Our thinking and our programs were built on the idea that this inevitable conflict, handled effectively, offers the opportunity for positive growth and even strengthening of relationships. This belief has been reinforced by our actual experiences over the years. However, at PCRC we also see the unfortunate side of conflict, when people are unable to get past their pain and anger and dehumanize other parties instead of working on agreements. In these cases, conflict damages health and resilience and it can even be catching.

Mediation was also designed to give disputing parties control over the outcome of the conflict resolution effort, with PCRC providing the “forum/process” for the problem solving. Of course, research has confirmed that when we feel we have some control in a situation, we are less stressed and better able to pursue our goals.

Early on we recognized that many people involved in conflict lacked the basic skills of conflict resolution, so we started to work with youngsters to give them training and opportunities to practice their communication and problem solving skills by negotiating school yard and classroom conflicts.

Later we added more services designed to build capacity in individuals and organizations to manage differences and encourage active and responsible participation in public issues. These civic engagement and community building programs are geared to build and sustain health, both personal and community health.

As you read this issue, I think you will recognize the connection between our work and the broad definition of health. While I am no longer a medical professional, I am rewarded each day by knowing that PCRC is helping to make the lives of San Mateo County residents healthier and happier.