Dear Friend, 

 

Bullying is not a novelty, yet this year we have witnessed tragedies associated with bullying in school-aged youth because of unaccepted and misunderstood differences. This is why SEEDS focusses on building community and relationships in schools, neighborhoods, families and workplaces.

As a SEED supporter, I know you agree that our conflict resolution work is becoming more relevant than ever, which is why I am writing to ask for your financial support.

This fall at Rosa Parks Elementary School, a group of 2^nd grade students were aggressively badgering 1^st graders.

Imagine being 6 years old. You are dreading to step out into the schoolyard because a group of 7-year-old kids are throwing you headfirst into a trash bin on a daily basis. You are being made fun of, pushed around and harassed. After a series of talks with all stakeholders - the bullies, victims, parents and teachers - and with the support of a SEEDS Circle Keeper, things begin to change.  In time, one of the bullies begins visiting your 1^st grade class weekly to help you with schoolwork, and he seems to be enjoying it; in fact, you've even heard him say he "loves" it.  

I share this success with you to demonstrate range of services SEEDS provides in our community, where we work hard to build healthy relationships in schools and beyond.

All of our programs have a common goal of providing a space for effective dialogue and solutions, and our practices focus on helping people develop empathy, bridge differences and find practical and meaningful ways to restore relationships and resolve conflict.

With the support of individuals like you, SEEDS offered conflict resolution services to over 2,000 Alameda County residents in 2011.

Help SEEDS sustain and improve upon these services 2012 by donating today. Your holiday gift will enable us to: 

• Provide a free mediation to a community member who cannot afford to solve their issue in court.
• Provide scholarships for extensive conflict resolution trainings to community members.
• Provide restorative justice trainings for students, volunteers, teachers and community members. 

Please click on the donate button below to make your year-end donation. Gifts of any amount are needed and appreciated.

On behalf of the children, youth and community members that will benefit from your gift, thank you for your ongoing support.

In peace and gratitude,

Shar Etebar

Executive Director

P.S. - This holiday request is our most important request of the year. Please help us make Alameda County a more peaceful place in 2012 by donating today.