The Asian Pacific American Dispute Resolution Center (APADRC) brings violence prevention and education to several schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District through our youth division titled Peace Makers and Mediators (PM²).  We provide both direct mediation services and conflict resolution training to students, teachers, and administrators.  The work we do is unique from other peer mediation programs because we directly address sensitive issues that are often the catalyst behind conflict such as racism, sexism and homophobia. 

Conflict is a regular and inevitable aspect of life. Schools are increasingly recognizing the importance of training staff, teachers, and students the skills necessary for managing conflict in a productive and nonviolent manner. This program provides students with a sense of responsibility, ownership, and the ability to both lead and work collaboratively with others. PM² has provided training and technical assistance to many schools in the greater Los Angeles area.

This youth based program began at Foshay Learning Center in 1997 and since then we have expanded to 10 other local middle and high schools in the Los Angeles County.  Although, the APADRC is primarily an Asian and Pacific Islander organization, we have a diverse staff that reaches out to all communities.  61% of students are Hispanic, 23% are African American, 10% are Asian Pacific Islander and 6% are white Caucasian.