Faces of the WDRC - Getting to Know Mediator, Irene Wysocki

We ask long time mediator, Irene Wysocki, to tell us a little bit about what inspired her to become a mediator and what energizes her about the work of mediation. Get to know Irene and read her response below:

In my former profession as a Director of Volunteer Resources, I sometimes dealt with conflicts among my staff and saw the value of listening to reduce these conflicts. I also learned the importance of regular training to enable volunteers to perform their duties successfully and provide them with valuable education opportunities.

In 2001, while residing in Oklahoma, I had the opportunity to take mediation training offered by the Supreme Court of Oklahoma and to serve as a volunteer mediator for several years. I relocated to Bellingham in 2007, where Moonwater reviewed and approved my Oklahoma training curriculum. I was then able to start as a mediator for WDRC in 2008. In addition to the WDRC, I also volunteer as a mediator with Volunteers of America Dispute Resolution Center, Western Washington.

Mediation is a way I contribute to society. Giving people a forum to be heard and respected, whether they come to an agreement or not, both inspires and rewards me. The mediation process itself is powerful. It changes the parties involved, so I always feel successful. I know there are challenges, because each case is different. Fortunately, I am able to apply the new information I receive from monthly WDRC in-services.