Bridge Builders
BridgeBuilders is a program of peer-to-peer conflict resolution that began in late 2006 as a project of OHSU's Richmond Clinic labor/management committee. The idea is to offer voluntary conflict resolution to AFSCME Local 328 members by another AFSCME Local 328 member trained in one-on-one conflict resolution.
The process is similar to mediation, but takes a more focused and time-sensitive approach. BridgeBuilders goal is to use a highly structured process of conflict resolution to allow participants the opportunity to resolve their differences in a single session.
AFSCME Local 328 decided to pilot the program, in 2007, beyond the Richmond Clinic because it fit with the strategic objectives members of Local 328 have identified in surveys. AFSCME members conveyed that workplace conflict and hostility is one of their most significant concerns in the workplace.
BridgeBuilders gives AFSCME members the opportunity to resolve conflict before problems escalate to discipline. BridgeBuilders is a strictly voluntary program. All content of mediation sessions are confidential within the limits of the law. BridgeBuilders can't agree not to report threats of violence or evidence of illegal discrimination, for example.
