Learning to Lead with Calm: Conflict Resolution Training at Puʻuhonua O Waiʻanae
- Admin
- Aug 25
- 1 min read
“Connect, then direct — a simple reminder that compassion comes first, even in moments of conflict.”
Living in community means sometimes facing conflict. With more than two hundred people calling Puʻuhonua O Waiʻanae home, disagreements are natural. Conflicts can come in many forms — from small disputes between residents to situations sparked by outsiders.
As leaders, we are committed to learning how to better guide our village through these challenges. That’s why we partnered with the Hawaiʻi Health & Harm Reduction Center (H3RC) to receive training on conflict resolution and de-escalation.
“These lessons are already helping us build a safer, stronger village.”
The sessions gave us practical, real-life tools: how to prevent disputes from escalating, how to calm tense situations, and how to recognize when it’s best to involve law enforcement. We also explored strategies like “connect, then direct,” creating a dedicated crisis response team, and approaching people compassionately when they are experiencing a mental health episode.
These lessons are already helping us build a safer, stronger village. Mahalo to Heather Lusk and the entire H3RC team for sharing their knowledge and walking alongside us in this journey of growth.
