Planting the Seeds of Conflict Resolution: Creating a Positive, Alternative Vision for Young People is NCRC’s newest program to train young leaders to be peer mediators in informal educational settings and/or alternative learning centers in the Nashville area. This program began in January 2010 with funding from the Maddox Charitable Fund. In partnership with 4-6 youth organizations and schools (Monroe Harding, Oasis Center, Galaxy Star Anti-Gang Initiative, LEAD Academy and two ALCs in North and East Nashville), NCRC is working with groups of young people (of varying ages) to develop a conflict resolution curriculum for high school and middle-school aged youth that will be implemented in 2011.  The goal of the Youth Mediation Program is to foster the development of leadership and conflict resolution skills in Nashville area youth, and use these skills to counter and reduce violence. By participating in the program and becoming a peer mediator, youth will receive a special certificate acknowledging their status as ‘ambassadors of peace and coexistence in Music City.’