UTICA — Empowered Pathways is offering a free Basic Mediation training to applicants interested in making a two-year volunteer commitment after completing an apprenticeship. The in-person training is 30 hours over a four-day period, May 5-6 and also May 19-20. Volunteer candidates must attend all four days.

Empowered Pathways is the Community Dispute Resolution Center for Oneida and Madison counties and has offered mediation services through the Peacemaker program for more than 30 years. Trained staff and volunteers help guide parties in finding common ground in a variety of situations including child custody, small claims, workplace conflict, lemon law, and other topics.

The mediation process is a self-directed and voluntary alternative to the local family and small claims court system.

Interested applicants are encouraged to also attend a Volunteer Information Session on March 29, either at noon or at 6 p.m., to learn about all the volunteer opportunities with Empowered Pathways. Registration is required and can be done through the phone/email below. For more information on volunteering with Empowered Pathways or to apply for the training, call 315-724-1718 x 150 or email  info@empoweredpathwayscny.org.