YES, we are committed to Compassionate Communication and are
teaching it to the inmates at the Madras prison!
Why do we teach Compassionate (Nonviolent) Communication at the Deer Ridge Correction Institution in Madras?
There is overwhelming evidence that those who receive empathy training increase their pro-social behavior, and further evidence that parolees who receive Nonviolent Communication training show an increase in empathy. Inmates taking our trainings report enjoying the changes that occur in all of their relationships including with their families, other inmates, and the correctional officers in prison. Oregon currently spends more on incarceration than on education even though there is overwhelming evidence that every dollar spent on rehabilitation offsets as much as six dollars in social costs. It is possible that we can make a significant contribution to peace and economic stability in our communities by offering Nonviolent Communication trainings in prisons.
Volunteers from the Center for Compassionate Living teach classes and facilitate a practice group at Deer Ridge Correctional Institution in Madras on Monday evenings. More than 100 men have participated in the program. These inmates are very conscious of their upcoming release dates and motivated to learn skills that will help them have better lives in the future. They are self-selected for the classes and are inspirational in their willingness to be vulnerable in a prison setting. They take responsibility for their actions and create new habits and skills that will contribute to their well-being and that of their families and communities.
The annual cost for the prison program is about $2,350 per year. If you would like to donate to help support this program, please send your check to:
Center for Compassionate Living
Location: Center for Compassionate Living, 803 SW Industrial Drive Way; Bend, OR 97702
Or donate through Paypal on their secure site:
Testimonials from some of the men who have been in an 8-week class and an 8-week practice group.
"Taking the class has been a communication opener for me. It's definitely helped me to stop and think before I speak to try to understand another's feelings before I do speak. And it has helped the communication process with my wife." -- Frank
"I have learned so much from Bryn. She has helped me learn to communicate, not just with others, but with myself. With help from the NVC class I can now solve "problems" that a short time ago would have devastated me mentally. I honestly thank God that Bryn brought NVC into my life." -- Troy
"I know more about myself now than I ever have known before in my life. When I first started NVC classes, I really was lost. I know me now. I know how to think and live. I'm sure my future will be a much better life than before. My attitude and feelings are so much better. Thank you NVC." -- Tony
"At 60 years old, this group has been the most helpful for me that I can ever remember. With issues of anger, to express my true feelings, for safety for others and myself. Thanks." -- Jeff
"I've gotten good and positive skills to communicate more clearly and accurately with people without violence or anger. It also taught me to consider one's needs and values." -- Ben
"NVC has taught me to be a more assertive and intrepid man. Also I've learned how to share my feelings in a way that doesn't hurt the other person. I highly recommend this class for anyone who wants to enhance their life and affect others in a positive way." -- Earl
More information:
Please contact Bryn Hazel at 541-350-6517, Email Bryn