The Loyola Center for Conflict Resolution (LCCR) is honored to have been selected by the JAMS Foundation and the National Association for Community Mediation (NAFCM) as one of five community mediation centers nationwide to receive grant funding for a one-year initiative focused on addressing hate crimes and violence prevention. LCCR joins a cohort of organizations from Georgia, New York, and Ohio, all committed to fostering more peaceful and just communities by working together to reduce violence-related hate speech and actions.
Cynthia Campoy Brophy has been selected as LCCR’s liaison with NAFCM and is leading this vital initiative. Her dedication and effort have laid a strong foundation for our work, driving us forward with passion and purpose.
In this inaugural year, the cohort met regularly to exchange best practices, share research and data, explore strategic frameworks, and engage with practitioners. LCCR hosted a series of “listening sessions” inviting LMU and LLS colleagues, community members, conflict resolution practitioners, and restorative justice and peacebuilding advocates to identify needs, resources, and capacities. These sessions aimed to weave together networks, pathways, and resources to amplify collective impact and provide communities with tools to become more conflict competent.
If approved, LCCR will extend its efforts into a second year, developing a replicable program that incorporates lessons learned. This initiative aims to create a tangible product that community mediation centers nationwide can adapt and implement in their communities, building a sustainable model for conflict resolution and violence prevention.