FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Matt Phillips, Executive Director  (602) 633-4213 admin@nafcm.org; www.nafcm.org

NAFCM Announces Raymond “Bud” Baker as First Recipient of the “Outstanding Volunteer Award”

Palm Springs, California (March 5, 2014) — On January 10, the National Association For Community Mediation (NAFCM) announced its first ever recipient of its newly established Outstanding Volunteer Award Program. 

NAFCM Executive Director Matt Phillips stated, “With over 20,000 volunteer mediators in the United States, NAFCM believed that it was long overdue that these amazing individuals receive the recognition they deserve.” 

NAFCM received many outstanding nominations from across the country for this new quarterly award which recognizes the significant work which volunteers provide to create the positive impacts of community mediation across the country.

The first recipient of the award is Raymond “Bud” Baker who volunteer ‘s with the Center for Resolution and Justice in Buffalo, New York.  NAFCM Board member and Ad-hoc committee chair D.G. Mawn commented, “Our committee was not only very impressed with the almost 500 cases Bud mediated but the extreme dedication and passion that he brings.  Bud’s nomination noted several outstanding examples as to how Bud contributes the center's success.” 

Bud’s nomination noted, “Bud's strengths include his vast knowledge and experience base, his passion for the process, his calming demeanor and thoughtful, logical approach to help mediation parties communicate and problem solve. As a former researcher, he brings sharp observation and analytical skills to the table.  He truly listens to the parties as they speak and he is persistent yet patient. In addition, he invests many hours each year in Continuing Education offerings and personal study to continuously hone his skills.”

Every quarter, NAFCM will announce a new Outstanding Volunteer Award winner.  Nominations for future awards can be made through NAFCM’s website at www.nafcm.org 

NAFCM.  In communities around the globe, programs and volunteers share their expertise to help others constructively engage, transform, and resolve conflict.  NAFCM supports these peacemakers by aggregating their wisdom, amplifying their voice, and advancing their critical work.