Dispute resolution center aims to help military personnel

A local organization chosen to participate in a national mediation program is now on a mission to help those who sacrifice so much for their country.

Starting this summer, the Warrenton-based Piedmont Dispute Resolution Center, a Piedmont United Way agency, will assist military personnel with communication skills and transitioning back into their communities.

The Reservist Reintegration and Transitions Program provides conflict resolution services for military service members and their families during and after deployment.

“Often times, life isn’t like it was when they (return),” said PDRC Executive Director Lawrie Parker via telephone interview Sunday morning.

Parker said the agency’s main goal is to help military personnel reintegrate back into their lives.

“It isn’t the same when you come back from deployment,” she said. “Often times, roles (are reversed).”

The program supports the re-establishment of healthy communication, problem solving and decision making during difficult times.

The National Association for Community Mediation spearheaded this program, which is being piloted in Virginia, Illinois, Ohio, Vermont and Florida.

The program will offer its services locally to the Piedmont region — Culpeper, Madison, Orange, Fauquier and Rappahannock counties — this summer.

Parker added that services will also be offered in Fredericksburg, Prince William County and the Manassas area.

“PDRC was selected because of its expertise in mediation, program development and proximity to military bases, and Reservist and National Guard installations,” according to Parker.

Parker and PDRC Vice President James Oyler recently attended a specialized training for the program at Capital University Law School in Columbus, Ohio.

“We’re honored to be able to provide this service to the military because they have provided so much to help keep our communities safe,” said Parker.

Rhonda Simmons can be reached at 825-0771 ext. 125 or .

For more information about joining the Piedmont Dispute Resolution Center, call 347-6650