Conflict Transformation Works
Conflict Transformation Works brings people together in proven restorative practices that transform conflict, repair harm and strengthen relationships. This long-standing municipal program is committed to equity in service and creative responses to conflict.
Conflict Transformation Works centers on three core services:
Community Mediation
Supported conversations about conflicts.
Community Mediation
The Works
Facilitated conversations about complex conflicts.
The Works
Restorative Justice
Balanced process to address the impacts of crime.
Restorative Justice
Our Approach
Conflict brings the possibility for transformation. The City supports self-determination and choice, welcomes and includes all voices, focuses on the strengths of each participant, works to repair harm and relationship, and respects each person's inherent dignity.
Support Conflict Transformation Works and its' services by donating:
Volunteering
Volunteers bring the community voice into City programs and empower people to create their own solutions.
Volunteers are involved in all aspects of the program's work. They are part of Community Mediation and Restorative Justice circles, administrative support, outreach and education efforts, and more.
City volunteers listen first and offer empowering choices, work together to include all voices in making change, increase understanding between people in conflict to build a stronger community, and value being part of a community that learns together.
Volunteers leading these programs keep Conflict Transformation Works a relevant, community-based service. Crime and conflict happen in community, and that means healing and repair can too. One conversation at a time, volunteers participate in processes that give everyone choice, voice and opportunity in conflict situations.
How does volunteering work?
Come join the City in transforming conflict. Volunteers are required to pick a program track:
Community Mediation volunteers work with residents whose quality of life is being negatively impacted by conflict (housing, neighborhood, etc.). To volunteer in Community Mediation, you must have a 40-hour Mediation Training Certificate.
Restorative Justice volunteers work with people of all ages impacted by crime and youth between the ages of 10-22 and their families.
- Adult Community Representative
- Peer Representative (ages 15-25)
- Co-Facilitator
The Works volunteers work on complex conflicts and require training in both Restorative Justice and Community Mediation.
The City accepts applications year-round. The program onboards new volunteers twice a year and requires them to complete an 8-hour training.
All volunteers receive mentorship. Observations for Community Mediation; practice with a more experienced volunteer in Restorative Justice.
Get Started
Step 1: Apply Online
Complete the City's online application using the City of Fort Collins Engage system. Please take time to answer each question with care. If you are interested in Community Mediation, please upload a copy of your completed 40-hour training certificate in your application.
Step 2: Background Check
Complete the background check (needed for everyone over the age of 18). Sterling Volunteers, a third-party company, sends a short email you will need to complete to run the background check. If you have any concerns about this process or need an alternative method to completing this, please call the City.
Step 3: In-person Interview
The City will reach out to you to schedule an in-person interview at the Conflict Transformation Works office (112 North Howes Street, Fort Collins, CO 80522). Interviews typically last about an hour and the City wants to hear your questions so please bring them.
Step 4: New Volunteer Orientation training
The City holds this required training twice a year and schedules it on a Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Contact Us
If you would like to contact City staff to have a conversation, or get other questions answered, please book an appointment or call the City at 970-657-5298 or email ConflictTransformationWorks@fortcollins.gov.
FAQ
What is the benefit? What will I get from it?
What is the benefit? What will I get from it?
People gain unique, new experiences, deepen community ties and spend time doing meaningful work in volunteering with Conflict Transformation Works.
Ongoing Learning
All volunteers receive training when they start, and the learning never has to end! The City offers many trainings throughout the year that give people the opportunity to try a new volunteer role or deepen their understanding of one specific skill or topic area.
Volunteer gatherings are held three-four times a year and bring all program volunteers together to learn about topics that affect the City's work. The City provides food and time for volunteers to get to know one another and deepen their relationships.
Volunteer appreciation is an annual tradition at Conflict Transformation Works! Gratitude is the City's attitude, and fun together is a priority. Typically held in November, the City brings everyone together to celebrate the year's accomplishments and the growth of the team and community impact.
What is the age range of volunteers?
The City accepts volunteers ages 14 and up.
What days and times can I volunteer?
- Community Mediations and restorative circles are scheduled Monday through Thursday starting around 5 p.m. and end about 8 p.m.
- Mediations can also be scheduled during the day, Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or between 1-4 p.m.
- The City's large group Restorative Justice program takes place on the second Saturday of every other month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Why do I need to pass a criminal background check?
The seven-year criminal background check is required and completed at the beginning of your volunteering. As a volunteer, you will be working with people in protected classes (youth, adults living with disabilities, seniors) and have access to sensitive information. If you do not have a social security number, the City can use an alternate method to complete this check. Additionally, all volunteers are expected to report felony-level charges if that happens.
Can volunteering at Conflict Transformation Works be used on my resume?
Yes! Learning and skill building is a centerpiece of the City's volunteer community, and the City can provide you with a letter of reference upon request.
What if I don't have a 40-hour Community Mediation training certificate?
Currently, the City requires the completion of this certificate as a pre-requisite to volunteering. City staff is developing an internal training that will replace this requirement in the future. Please reach out to ConflictTransformationWorks@fortcollins.gov for more information.