A Challenge Program is a series of games, activities, puzzles, and interactions designed to help a group learn and grow together. These unique workshops have their roots in Adventure Programming and Experiential Learning research. Much of this was originally conducted during mountain climbing, through cave exploration, or on purpose-build ropes courses in the woods. Early scientists and facilitators found that they could achieve extraordinary levels of team cohesiveness in these environments, and bring about dramatic, positive change in the way that members of a group interacted.
Through careful adaptation and invention, Empowered Pathways has been able to apply these same principles in more familiar environments. Using simpler formats and portable equipment, we can achieve similar results in a huge diversity of groups without needing to trek into the wilderness. While we still occasionally use ropes courses and natural settings in our work, we have found that nearly any space can be used as an effective setting for a Challenge Program.
We regularly hold Challenge Programs in public parks, sports fields, gymnasiums, and conference rooms. In a pinch, we have been known to use classrooms, auditoriums, and even an empty hallway.
We are happy to announce the return of our Professional Pathways training program: FROM WERC TO WORK!
Youth present a unique challenge in the practices of Dispute Resolution and Restorative Justice. On the one hand, youth have their own needs, and require us to adapt the time-tested techniques that we have practiced for our entire careers. On the other hand, youth are entitles to the same ethics, standards, and quality of service as any other party, and our core values don't change depending on the age of our parties. So, how do we proceed? This one-day training is designed to explore these issues and more, enabling practitioners to effectively engage youth.
Responsive Circles focus on repairing harm. This harm can be anything from vandalism to theft to assault, and includes behaviors such as bullying and harassment.
One of the most common case types in any small claims court is the eviction. In addition, countless claims are brought by landlords and tenants regarding rent reductions, leases, security deposits, damages, and more. The fact is that New York State is, far and away, the leader in sheer quantity of landlord-tenant law. This means that to be a good, effective, and profitable landlord in New York, you need knowledge. This training provides a foundation for becoming informed and effective.
We offer a variety of services for schools and other educational institutions. Dispute resolution can help by providing tools to teachers, administrators, staff, parents, and students to address a wide range of issues without adding cost. Empowered Pathways has a long history of providing innovative, evidence-based services for schools and youth in our community.
