A Community Approach to Conflict Resolution
Originally rooted in Howard Community College, MCRC has grown into an independent, community-anchored organization. We believe that people hold the wisdom and capacity to navigate their own challenges, when given the right support. Our role is to walk alongside individuals, families, and groups, facilitating conversations that restore trust, repair relationships, and strengthen communities.
OUR MISSION
Provide widely accessible and affordable conflict resolution services and education that help all community members manage conflict and have difficult conversations in a meaningful, proactive way.
OUR VISION
MCRC envisions a strong, vibrant, peaceful community where all members have the strategies, skills, and support to resolve conflict.
26 Years of Service
Our History
Originally connected to Howard Community College, we have since grown into an independent, community-rooted organization. Our work is grounded in the belief that people hold the wisdom and capacity to navigate their own challenges when given the right support. We walk alongside individuals, families, and groups to facilitate conversations that restore trust, mend relationships, and build stronger communities.
Our Core Values
MCRC is committed to building an inclusive and equitable community. We use Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) to resolve conflicts in a way that values equity, diversity, and collaboration. By prioritizing fair access, amplifying diverse voices, removing barriers to participation, and fostering shared investment, these values guide our principles, shaping how we serve and engage with individuals and groups in Howard County.
Equity
We believe that everyone deserves fair access to conflict resolution and restorative practices, regardless of their circumstances, background, or resources.
Collaboration
We believe that meaningful change happens when people work together toward shared goals, honoring each other's perspectives and strengths.
Gift Economy
We value generosity as the foundation of a gift economy, where services are offered to the community without expecting with no expectation of transaction or profit. This ethos inspires a culture of mutual support, where the collective contributions of time, skills, and resources - especially from volunteers - reflect our shared commitment to equity, inclusion, and community well-being.
Radical Inclusion
We honor and uplift the voices of all individuals in our services, recognizing each person's inherent wisdom the inherent wisdom each person brings. We center self-determination, supporting individuals in reclaiming agency over their lives and decisions. By addressing and transforming power dynamics, we create spaces where those historically excluded or marginalized can access tools and resources to shape solutions that align with their unique needs and aspirations.
MCRC Commitment to the The Nine Hallmarks of Community Mediation
Meet our team
We are proud to be guided by a team whose compassion, wisdom, and commitment bring our mission to life every day.
Dawn
Executive Director
Kerry
Assistant Executive Director
Tanisiha
Case Manager & Data Coordinator
Margie
School Coordinator & RJ Facilitator
Tammatha O'Brien
Vice President
Derek Robertson
Vice President
Alec Taylor
Treasure
Susan Bottomley
Secretary
Robert Duru
Board Member
Jazmyn Padmore
Board Member
Jane Porter
Board Member
Tamara Saunders
Board Member
Kimberly Pfeifer
Board Member
Roxie Tossie
Board Member
Roger Meade
Board Member