The Dispute Resolution Center of Yakima and Kittitas Counties needs more volunteer mediators, including Spanish speakers.

The nonprofit organization provides mediation services at an affordable rate using volunteers to mediate cases. Mediation is a process that allows people in conflict to discuss their concerns with one another and develop their own solutions outside the court system.

The first step in becoming a mediator is a 40-hour basic training course that is offered in Yakima and Kittitas Counties once a year.

The next training will be held over two weekends: Oct. 23-25 and Nov. 6-8. The cost is $450, but partial scholarships may be available to those who agree to volunteer as mediators for the DRC.

For more information, contact Meredith Bruch at the DRC at coordinator@drcyakima.org. You can also call 509-453-8949 or 800-853-8949. In Ellensburg, call 509-925-5123.