Teens and their parents or guardians are invited to gain training in conflict management and active listening in a free June 27, 2006, program sponsored by Wayne State University’s Center for Peace and Conflict Studies (CPCS) and a new Detroit group promoting community activism and volunteerism. 

Wayne State is organizing the 11 a.m.-4 p.m. program at its General Lectures building, on Anthony Wayne Drive at Warren Avenue in Detroit, with ARISE Detroit, as part of Peace Day. ARISE, which stands for “Activating Resources and Inspiring Service and Empowerment,” conceived of Peace Day to focus on initiatives to reduce crime and violence and to promote conflict resolution. Participants will learn how they can become part of this effort. 

Registration for the Wayne State program will begin at 11 a.m. followed by lunch at 11:30 a.m. Parking is available for $3.50 in university parking structure 2 on Anthony Wayne Drive, near the General Lectures building. After lunch, the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office will speak about role models for nonviolence and success in life and promote the afternoon’s workshops for teens and adults. The day will conclude with positive performances by well-known local musical artists. 

In the workshops, adults will learn parenting skills and how to use attentive listening to understand problems teens are facing, said CPCS Director Frederic S. Pearson. Teens will present their ideas ― using art, poetry, music or prose ― on how to make their neighborhoods safer. Then the parents will use their listening skills to understand the teens’ ideas. Trainers from CPCS and the Detroit Parent Network will direct the workshops. Goodwill Industries and other cooperating agencies are helping to recruit participants. 

“Wayne State is proud to sponsor Peace Day,” Pearson said, “because the university has long been dedicated to the prosperity of its home city ― Detroit ― and the well-being of its citizens. Peace Day aligns with part of the mission of the Center for Peace and Conflict Studies, which is to implement programs on constructive conflict resolution. In addition, this program promotes positive change in the community, which is part of Wayne State’s urban mission.” 

ARISE Detroit was created to promote greater citizen involvement and community awareness of organizations and services that help a community function better. The organization is marking its launch during the week of June 26 with a number of events. For further information, visit arisedetroit.org or call (866) 94-ARISE. 

Wayne State University is a premier institution of higher education offering more than 350 academic programs through 11 schools and colleges to more than 33,000 students.