Civil Discourse In-Service: Navigating Challenging Conversations

CASA of Kent County recently hosted special volunteer training with the Padnos/Sarosik Center for Civil Discourse of Grand Valley State University. The session, called “Navigating Challenging Conversations,” was all about learning ways to have productive dialogue—even when emotions are high.

Led by Lisa Perhamus, Ph.D., from the Center for Civil Discourse, the training focused on guidelines for productive conversation. Volunteers learned strategies for handling strong emotions and keeping the conversation on track. One powerful aspect of the training involved a discussion about the complex feelings that might arise during difficult discussions. By openly exploring these emotions, CASA volunteers gained valuable insight into their own responses, helping them stay grounded and effective when encountering similar situations in their advocacy roles.

Volunteers also practiced their dialogue skills with a realistic case scenario, giving them the opportunity to discuss how they might address an important yet complicated conversation. This hands-on practice highlighted the importance of maintaining focus on best-interest advocacy for the CASA child while also navigating the diverse perspectives and emotions involved in child welfare cases.

Our CASA volunteers left the training with new confidence in their communication skills, ready to use what they learned in their work with children and families. We’re so thankful for their dedication to growing as advocates and for the support of Dr. Perhamus and the Padnos/Sarosik Center for Civil Discourse!

This story is featured in the Winter 2024 edition of CASA Connect, CASA of Kent County’s quarterly newsletter. Click here to view a pdf version of this newsletter.