Nonviolent Communication (NVC) practice
NVC's premise: most conflict arises from unmet needs and misidentified feelings. Its practice: distinguish observations from evaluations, feelings from thoughts, needs from strategies, and requests from demands. Train all adult members in NVC basics (8 hours). Use it as the foundation for all formal mediation.
Formal conflict resolution protocol
When informal resolution fails, a formal protocol: (1) affected parties request mediation; (2) neutral role-holder facilitates; (3) structured conversation follows documented process; (4) outcomes are documented. A clear protocol prevents ad-hoc conflict management that privileges louder voices.
Community process facilitation
Collaborate closely with Governance (Role 17) to design meeting processes that surface minority views and reach genuine consensus rather than apparent agreement followed by private resentment.
Individual counseling and burnout support
Provide private support for individuals experiencing burnout, relationship stress, grief, or other challenges. Role-holders should have mental health training. Maintain referral relationships with therapists in the nearest city.
Seasonal stress management
Northern winters create predictable stress peaks: December–February. Proactively increase support activities during these months. Coordinate with Culture & Morale (Role 24) on winter programming.