What's Culture Got to Do With It?

New Culture Philly

Free Monthly Evenings

The 1st Wednesday of each month (April 1, May 6, 2015)

Many of us who are using NVC in our lives, as well as many other counter-cultural approaches like veganism, home schooling, non-materialism, etc. are basically taking on the whole existing culture on our own.

As a result, we end up designing our lives piecemeal: a little of this, rejecting that, etc.

Ever wonder what it would be like to live your life inside a community that not only supported, but encouraged your choices?

That's the idea behind New Culture.

We see it as the next big thing after NVC, because it creates a field of non-judgment in which to practice non-violence.

Curiosity piqued?

For me, New Culture is about freedom. Freedom from limiting beliefs which got in before we had a chance to decide whether or not the beliefs which are transmitted in our particular subset of the wider culture that we received which  are actually true for each of us.

So, for me, New Culture is about truth, your individual truths. These truths are relative, not absolute. I like to think of them as the particular way my soul managed to manifest into this life. I’m not sure I believe in reincarnation or past lives as a fact, but I like these ideas as a metaphor for the larger, wider perspective that New Culture has brought into my life.

So for me, New Culture is about having a wider perspective than the preconceived way the existing culture assumes things to be. I have always been a “none of the above” kind of guy. The first multiple choice test I took had that as its options: A, B, C, D or E: “None of the above.” I loved that! If none of the choices offered are perfect for me, there’s still choice. Another choice not offered by the culture explicitly, but offered implicitly by the simple fact that none of the choices offered fit me.

So for me, New Culture is about choice, and the assumption that there is a choice which does fit me perfectly. Okay, perfect is a little strong (at least the old culture’s definition of it). This is a dynamic perfection: one that fits me now – expresses everything I know about my own truth at this point – and is by further implication, open to change as I come to know myself better.

And so for me, New Culture is about knowing oneself, and coming to know more and more perfectly, accurately, and uniquely who I am and what is true for me. And therefore, wanting to know what is true for others, without my assuming I know (either because, as the existing culture assumes, we all feel similarly and are subject to the same universal truths; or because since I know me, I therefore know the universal truth, and therefore know you).

So for me, New Culture is about difference: acknowledging that I am different from moment to moment, and that you are different from me and even from what I thought I knew about you.
New Culture Philly Evenings

Our Monthly New Culture Evenings

So our monthly New Culture Evenings are a chance for our new, growing community to explore and experience freedom, choice, truth and difference; an exploration to unpack one topic a month through this wider perspective.

Time and Place: We'll meet at Rivers Manor, 508 E. Sedgwick St, Phila, PA 19119 (East Mt. Airy).

• 6:00 - 7:15 pm Potluck
• 7:15 - 9:00 pm Workshop Topic
• 9:00 - 10:00 pm Optional Cuddle/Desert Social
  
  

Topic: In January, I’d like to explore intimate relationships using this process, in particular, monogamy and polyamory.

Cost: Evenings are free. Please pre-register so we know how many to expect. You can come to all or part of any evening - it's your community. Anyone who wants to help with organizing, facilitating or whatever, let Max know.

New Culture Potluck

Let’s make our potlucks be in the spirit of the New Culture, as well.

Food, it turns out in our existing culture, is riddled with limiting beliefs and behaviors that contradict many of our strongly held values. This as a result, largely, of the fact that our culture values profit over everything else (even in areas as crucial for all of our wellbeing as food, shelter, freedom, equality and democracy).

For instance, you probably value your health, and believe that sugar, caffeine, chemical preservatives, pesticides, antibiotics and maybe even red meat are not healthy for you.

And even so, you may start every day with coffee, drink soft drinks, and eat fast food because it’s:

1. Delicious
2. Convenient
3. You don’t know how to cook
4. You eat pretty healthy even so
5. None of the Above

For these potlucks, let’s assume the answer is: “E. None of the Above,” and spend some time thinking about what you could bring to a potluck which would be aligned with your deepest truth about your own health, happiness and wellbeing, and what you would want to feed your community assuming you love them and care for and about them.
We’ll spend some time during the meal chatting about our choices.

University

7-9pm March 12th at Boomer U in Ambler
The Art of Great Conversations (with your Grandchildren/Children)

Thursday, March 12 ~ 7-9pm (Register by 3/9.)
$15/pp; $20/couple 

Does it feel like you're missing some key skill to connect with the younger people in your life - no matter what their age? Do you spend precious time arguing over small stuff? Do you find yourself resorting to bribery to get your grandchildren to do things?

Learn a few skills that will empower you to communicate with them successfully.  You'll learn how to respond to the younger people (children/grandchildren) in your life in a way that can transform potential conflict into win-win situations. Bring your real-life challenges and we'll help you develop new ways of dealing with old stuck places.  

Facilitated by Max Rivers, Rivers Mediation.   

To Register for Boomer U:
Call 215.619.8863 or email them at [email protected]
$15 /person or $20/couple

Mail checks payable to: SAAC, 45 Forest Ave, Ambler, PA 19002 attn: Boomer U

Directions: The address here is 45 Forest Ave. Ambler. We are between N. Ridge and N. Spring Garden just a couple of blocks north of the main street, Butler Ave. We have a large parking lot in the back. To enter the building, go to the right front of the lot and down the stairs.

Have you ever been to the Ambler movie theatre? (If it's on your left, turn right at the next light which is N. Ridge. Go a couple of blocks to Forest and turn left and we are on the right. It's a large stone building - used to be a middle school. The driveway is just before the building.)

What's Culture Got to Do With It?

New Culture Philly
Free Intro Evenings

Wednesday March 4th and March 18th, 2015)

Many of us who are using NVC in our lives, as well as many other counter-cultural approaches like veganism, home schooling, non-materialism, etc. are basically taking on the whole existing culture on our own.

As a result, we end up designing our lives piecemeal: a little of this, rejecting that, etc.

Ever wonder what it would be like to live your life inside a community that not only supported, but encouraged your choices?

That's the idea behind New Culture.

We see it as the next big thing after NVC, because it creates a field of non-judgment in which to practice non-violence.

Curiosity piqued?

For me, New Culture is about freedom. Freedom from limiting beliefs which got in before we had a chance to decide whether or not the beliefs which are transmitted in our particular subset of the wider culture that we received which  are actually true for each of us.

So, for me, New Culture is about truth, your individual truths. These truths are relative, not absolute. I like to think of them as the particular way my soul managed to manifest into this life. I’m not sure I believe in reincarnation or past lives as a fact, but I like these ideas as a metaphor for the larger, wider perspective that New Culture has brought into my life.

So for me, New Culture is about having a wider perspective than the preconceived way the existing culture assumes things to be. I have always been a “none of the above” kind of guy. The first multiple choice test I took had that as its options: A, B, C, D or E: “None of the above.” I loved that! If none of the choices offered are perfect for me, there’s still choice. Another choice not offered by the culture explicitly, but offered implicitly by the simple fact that none of the choices offered fit me.

So for me, New Culture is about choice, and the assumption that there is a choice which does fit me perfectly. Okay, perfect is a little strong (at least the old culture’s definition of it). This is a dynamic perfection: one that fits me now – expresses everything I know about my own truth at this point – and is by further implication, open to change as I come to know myself better.

And so for me, New Culture is about knowing oneself, and coming to know more and more perfectly, accurately, and uniquely who I am and what is true for me. And therefore, wanting to know what is true for others, without my assuming I know (either because, as the existing culture assumes, we all feel similarly and are subject to the same universal truths; or because since I know me, I therefore know the universal truth, and therefore know you).

So for me, New Culture is about difference: acknowledging that I am different from moment to moment, and that you are different from me and even from what I thought I knew about you.
New Culture Philly Evenings

Free Intro New Culture Evenings

So our New Culture Intro Evenings are a chance for our new, growing community to explore and experience freedom, choice, truth and difference; an exploration to unpack one topic a month through this wider perspective.

Time and Place: We'll meet at Rivers Manor, 508 E. Sedgwick St, Phila, PA 19119 (East Mt. Airy).

• 7:30 - 9:00 pm Workshop Topic
  
  

Cost: Evenings are free. Please pre-register so we know how many to expect.

Dates: One Saturday eact the month
   May 17, June 28, July 26 and August 16 of 2014

Workshop & Practice: 3pm-5pm

Optional Potluck BBQ : 5:30-7pm

Cost:
$50 if you prepay and register below
$65 at the door

PhillyNVC Members come Free

 Click here to register now

PLUS:  FREE private phone evaluation with the presenter of your choice (a $75 value).

Marriage is a dynamic, ever changing landscape that is an outward reflection of your own internal state.

When:
Monday's 7:30-9pm
April 2014

Your First Class Special Offer: If this is your first NVC Class, it's free!

Package Deal Special Offer: $60 for four classes to anyone who prepays* before first class (one free class). $70 if you pay on the first class or $80 if you pay for every class.
Click here to register and pay online to get the discount!

PhillyNVCommunity Members: Free if you preregister here for this class or for the whole series

When: Mondays 7:30-9pm Sept, 2014

Where: Rivers Manor 508 E. Sedgwick St, Phila 19119

Students are required to have the book : Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life available during the first class for $25.

What's Culture Got to Do With It?

New Culture Philly Weekend 2015

Fri, March 20- Sun, March 22, 2015

Your First Class Special Offer: If this is your first NVC Class, it's free!

Package Deal Special Offer: $60 for four classes to anyone who pays before the start of the first class. $70 if you pay for all four on the first class or $80 if you pay for every class.
Click here to register and pay online to get the discount!

When: Monday's 7:30-9pm Feb 2014

Where: Rivers Manor 508 E. Sedgwick St, Phila 19119

Info: Questions? Contact 215.266.0598 or [email protected]

Student Review: I just want to thank you again for the NVC classes that I took back in 2009 ... I feel like it has completely changed MY LIFE in a good way! :-) I keep meaning to thank you. 2010 was really a good year for me after those classes ... it's so much easier to connect with people, easier to resolve my own internal conflicts, and my friends comment on how calm and empathetic I am in a crisis and they seem to rely on me more often for someone to talk to. To be honest I haven't been consciously "trying to use NVC" ... it just affected my perspective in a very good and peaceful way. -Janie

Dates: 2nd Sunday of the month
   Feb, March, April of 2014

Potluck Dinner :
   Sunday 5:30-7pm

Communication Games::
   Sunday 7:30 (sharp!)-9pm

Cost:
$5 if you prepay and register below
$10 at the door

People who bring a pot-luck offering and PhillyNVC Members come Free

Intensive:
   Sat Jan 25, 2014: 11a-1:30pm, 3-5:30p and optional dinner and evening Sensual Eve
   

Cost:
$20 for the Friday Night Intro/Person or Couple Cancelled
$100 for Saturday/person or couple (Includes Friday evening) Cancelled

PhillyNVC Members come Free

When:
Monday's 6-7:30 (optionally -9pm)
Feb, 2014

Intensive:
   Sat: Oct 19: 10a-5pm

Cost:
$20 for the Thursday Night Intro/Person or Couple
$100 for the weekend /person or couple (Includes Thurs evening)

$10 for optional Saturday lunch
$15 for onsite childcare/child on Saturday.

PhillyNVC Members come Free

7-9pm September 11th at Boomer U in Ambler
Empty Nester Marriage Skills Class

The kids have moved out, maybe one or both of you are now retired; in any case, you suddenly have more time together than you have in decades. What now?

Research shows that you are entering what many couples report as the best years of their life and relationship. In this hour-and-a-half course, we'll remind you how to have fun together, teach you some skills that will make these next years better than you ever imagined. Come prepared to laugh, learn and reconnect.

Bring your spouse or come alone. This class will also be helpful for people between relationships seeking to improve their partnership skills.

To Register for Boomer U:
Call 215.619.8863 or email them at [email protected]
$20 /person or couple

Mail checks payable to: SAAC, 45 Forest Ave, Ambler, PA 19002 attn: Boomer U)

Directions: The address here is 45 Forest Ave. Ambler. We are between N. Ridge and N. Spring Garden just a couple of blocks north of the main street, Butler Ave. We have a large parking lot in the back. To enter the building, go to the right front of the lot and down the stairs.

Have you ever been to the Ambler movie theatre? (If it's on your left, turn right at the next light which is N. Ridge. Go a couple of blocks to Forest and turn left and we are on the right. It's a large stone building - used to be a middle school. The driveway is just before the building.)

Weekend:
   Sat: 11a-1:30pm, 3-5:30p and optional dinner and evening Sensual Eve
   Sun: 11-2pm

Cost:
$20 for the Friday Night Intro/Person or Couple
$200 for the weekend /person or couple (Includes Friday evening)
$30 for optional Saturday dinner

PhillyNVC Members come Free

Weekend:
   Sat: 11a-1:30pm, 3-5:30p and optional dinner and evening Empathy Eve, 7:30-9:30pm
   Sun: 11-2pm

Cost:
$20 for the Friday Night Intro/Person
$200 for the weekend /person (Includes Friday evening)
$30 for optional Saturday dinner

PhillyNVC Members come Free

“The thing I enjoy the most is the community we build – it starts out with almost nothing and builds until we’re almost like family.” –Cameron, 16 years old

This 10-day Quest with canoes is an adventure where we invite you to paddle among the loons, portage from one lake to the other, begin unforgettable friendships, swim, relax, play, and laugh uncontrollably in the beautiful setting of Papineau-Labelle Wildlife Reserve.

Learn to trust yourself and to know that you can trust others
Develop your Wilderness skills while learning to canoe
Enjoy cooking and feasting with incredible organic camp meals
Discover how to make choices that serve you experiencing freedom from fear
Transform judgmental thoughts about yourself and others into understanding
Practice speaking your truth and listening deeply with empathy
Initiate yourself into Being Nonviolence and how to BE the change that you want to see in the world

OUR DAYS TOGETHER:

Play in the Wild! Animators will offer opportunities in Being Nonviolence through Taiji (Tai Chi), Qigong, Yoga, Mindfulness Practices, Journal Writing, Meditation, Nonviolent Communication, Storytelling, Vision Quest, Canoeing, Swimming, Tracking the Inner and Outer Wild, Cooking, Outdoor Leadership Skills and Games, Wilderness Skills and lots more! Animators on team for this Quest will be: Catherine Cadden, Jesse Wiens, Melanie Whitham, Colin Perreault, Kodiak Drewry and Eve Penberthy.
LIVING IN COMMUNITY:

Wild! Fire CircleWe will engage in the practices of becoming more attuned to what motivates us and choosing strategies that will bring the most aliveness and connection to ourselves and the group. We will create a safe nonjudgmental environment focused on Being Nonviolence. This requests each of us to leave alcohol, recreational drugs, guns, weapons, and smoking at home. After opening circle we will have a ceremonial “unplugging” where we will place all electronics in a safe space to be held for the duration of our time together. This is to give us a unique journey of returning to connection with ourselves, each other, and the land we live on. Folks are welcome to “plug” back into the matrix after closing circle.
CERTIFICATES/CREDIT:

Hours from this training can be applied to certification with the Center for Nonviolent Communication and may apply towards course study in certain schools or CEUs.
FOOD:

We will create a rotation of leadership and support to provide meals for the whole group. We will provide organic lacto-ovo vegetarian meals. In the tradition of Play in the Wild!, these will be gourmet, unique, delicious flavors from around the world adapted for the trail.
TRAVEL:

Air travelers should plan to fly into Montreal – Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL). Plan to arrive between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on July 31st. Plan your departure for August 9th between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Play in the Wild! will provide transportation to and from the airport for air travelers. Local participants should plan to be dropped off and picked up at our base camp, Ferme du Bord du Lac, on Île Bizard, 30 minutes from the airport. More details will be provided with your registration packet.
COST:

We offer our work freely in service to peace. At the same time, we request monetary contributions to cover the costs of this unique program and offer sustainability for Play in the Wild! and the Animator Team that makes it all possible:

$25 non-refundable Application Fee with your Wild! application
$1244 Tuition – This contribution covers costs of insurance, materials, all food, transportation and equipment rentals for the Quest, sustainability for Play in the Wild! and the Animators leading the training, and miscellaneous surprises.

All amounts are in USD.

If you are concerned about your ability to meet the Tuition request, but feel genuinely called to the Canoe Quest, we invite you to still apply. During our interview, we can help you find a creative solution, and discuss alternative payment plans.

If you are able to contribute more than the requested amount and would like to help make this Training accessible to everyone regardless of where they come from, consider making a donation. Your donation can be applied directly towards the Tuition of applicants with limited financial resources.
REGISTRATION:

Quebec Wild! 2012

Click on the Sign Up Here! button at the bottom of this page to fill out an online Application and submit your $25 application fee.
After we receive your Application and application fee, we will schedule an interview with you by phone or Skype to see if this program is a fit for your needs and to assess medical or behavioral histories that could pose a threat to your safety or the safety of others. If there is mutual agreement in the interview that the program is a fit, then we will send you a Registration Packet.
Fill out the Registration Packet and return it to Play in the Wild! along with your full $1244 Tuition (unless an alternative financial arrangement has been made during your interview).
Once we receive both your completed Registration Packet and full Tuition, you are fully registered. Until then, we will not guarantee your place in the Canoe Quest.

If you have any questions about the Canoe Quest, including the Registration process, feel free to contact us. We are happy to respond.

“I am returning home with more courage, more endurance and a better understanding of my environment.” Cèdric, 14 years old

Develop your Wilderness skills and learn the joy of sleeping outside under the stars
Trust yourself and know that you can trust others
Enjoy cooking and feasting with incredible organic camp meals
Discover how to make choices that serve you and others
Find freedom from fearing what others might think of you
Transform judgmental thoughts about yourself and others into understanding
Practice speaking your truth and listening deeply with empathy
Live in community and learn the interdependence you have with ALL life
Initiate yourself into Being Nonviolence and how to BE the change that you want to see in the world

OUR DAYS TOGETHER:

Play in the Wild! Animators will offer practices in Being Nonviolence through Yoga, Mindfulness Practices, Meditation, Nonviolent Communication, Storytelling, Vision Quest, Swimming, Tracking the Inner and Outer Wild, Cooking, and lots more! Animators on team for this Quest will be: Catherine Cadden, Hannah Muller, Kodiak Drewry, and Eve Penberthy.
LIVING IN COMMUNITY:

We will engage in the practices of becoming more attuned to what motivates us and choosing strategies that will bring the most aliveness and connection to ourselves and with the group. We will create a safe, nonjudgmental environment focused on Being Nonviolence. This requests each of us to leave alcohol, recreational drugs, guns, weapons, and smoking at home. After opening circle we will have a ceremonial “unplugging” where we will place all electronics in a safe space to be held for the duration of our time together. This is to give us a unique journey of returning to connection with ourselves, each other, and the land we live on. Folks are welcome to “plug” back into the matrix after closing circle.
CERTIFICATES/CREDIT:

Hours from this Quest can be applied to certification with the Center for Nonviolent Communication and may apply towards course study in certain schools or CEUs.
FOOD:

We will create a rotation of leadership and support to provide meals for the whole group. We will provide organic lacto-ovo vegetarian meals. In the tradition of Play in the Wild!, these will be gourmet, unique, delicious flavors from around the world especially suited for the trail.
TRANSPORTATION/TRAVEL:

International and out-of-area students flying into California- plan to fly into San Francisco International Airport no later than 9pm on July 10th and depart no earlier July 20th. We will provide pick up at the San Francisco International Airport on July 10th. We will provide drop- off at the San Francisco International Airport starting at midnight on July 19th and all day on July 20th. Local students will be notified about where we will meet up in Marin, Sacramento, and El Dorado Counties for pick up on July 11th and drop off on July 19th.
COST:

We offer our work freely in service to peace. At the same time, we request monetary contributions to cover the costs of this unique program and offer sustainability for Play in the Wild! and the Animator Team that makes it all possible:

$25 non-refundable Application Fee with your Wild! application
$1141 Tuition – This contribution covers costs of insurance, materials, all food, park fees, transportation and equipment rentals for the Quest, sustainability for Play in the Wild! and the Animators leading the training, and miscellaneous surprises.

All amounts are in USD.

If you are concerned about your ability to meet the Tuition request, but feel genuinely called to the Backpack Quest, we invite you to still apply. During our interview, we can help you find a creative solution, and discuss alternative payment plans.

If you are able to contribute more than the requested amount and would like to help make this Training accessible to everyone regardless of where they come from, consider making a donation. Your donation can be applied directly towards the Tuition of applicants with limited financial resources.
REGISTRATION:

Click on the Sign Up Here! button at the bottom of this page to fill out an online Application and submit your $25 application fee.
After we receive your Application and application fee, we will schedule an interview with you by phone or Skype to see if this program is a fit for your needs and to assess medical or behavioral histories that could pose a threat to your safety or the safety of others. If there is mutual agreement in the interview that the program is a fit, then we will send you a Registration Packet.
Fill out the Registration Packet and return it to Play in the Wild! along with your full $1141 Tuition (unless an alternative financial arrangement has been made during your interview).
Once we receive both your completed Registration Packet and full Tuition, you are fully registered. Until then, we will not guarantee your place in the Backpack Quest.

If you have any questions about the Backpack Quest, including the Registration process, feel free to contact us. We are happy to respond.

Cultivating Honesty and Empathy:
A Weekend Retreat

With Stephen Michael Tumolo and a Mystery Guest

Friday, February 15 - Sunday, February 17, 2013
"Mary's Place" in Wildwood, New Jersey

Spend a weekend with Stephen Michael, a special guest, and up to ten other people who are interested in developing their ability to speak authentically and from the Heart and to listen effectively and compassionately.

For more information on this retreat, to register - contact Susan Weiss at (856)236-0183 or email her OR contact Stephen Michael Tumolo at (609)707-5900 or email .

About the Facilitators:
Steve … is an educator who teaches Nonviolent Communication as developed by Dr. Marshall Rosenberg and the body's natural way of healing trauma, Somatic Experiencing, as developed by Dr. Peter Levine. He has a Master's degree in Theology from Maryknoll School of Theology. He facilitates a group for male survivors at The Starting Point in Westmont, NJ and works there with individuals, couples, and families. He currently leads the "Heart-to-Heart" program for men incarcerated at Bayside State prison and has led educational groups for incarcerated men for over seven years.

Your First Class Special Offer: If this is your first NVC Class, it's free!

Package Deal Special Offer: $40 for four classes to anyone who prepays* before first class (two free classes). $50 if you pay on the first class or $60 if you pay for every class.
Click here to register and pay online to get the discount!

When: Tuesday's 7:30-9pm Jan 29, Feb 5,12,19

Where: Rivers Manor 508 E. Sedgwick St, Phila 19119

Students are required to have the book : Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life available during the first class for $25.

Your First Class Special Offer: If this is your first NVC Class, it's free!

Package Deal Special Offer: $80 for five classes to anyone who pays before the start of the first class. $90 if you pay for all four on the first class or $100 if you pay for every class.
Click here to register and pay online to get the discount!

When: Tuesday's 7:30-9pm March 19,26 Apr 2,9,16

Where: Rivers Manor 508 E. Sedgwick St, Phila 19119

Info: Questions? Contact 215.266.0598 or [email protected]

Student Review: I just want to thank you again for the NVC classes that I took back in 2009 ... I feel like it has completely changed MY LIFE in a good way! :-) I keep meaning to thank you. 2010 was really a good year for me after those classes ... it's so much easier to connect with people,
	easier to resolve my own internal conflicts, and my friends comment on how calm and empathetic I am in a crisis and they seem to rely on me more often for someone to talk to. To be honest I haven't been consciously "trying to use NVC" ... it just affected my perspective in a very good and peaceful way. -Janie

On-going in 2013

Free Empathy Practice Group

First and Third Sundays 7-9pm

Judy Morgan will be hosting a free, Empathy practice group.

AND

The focus of the practice group would be to explore feelings and needs in specific conflict situations (we can make them up or use our own experiences), and then role play how they could be handled. The group will eventually rotate facilitation but in the beginning will be facilitated by Max or Judy.

To join this group, and get the East Mt. Airy location, please email Judy.
or Go To the MEETUP at MEETUP.com
(If you don't join the Mt Airy NVC Practice Group, please email Judy to let her know if you're coming.)

This is a free offering.

What is an Empathy Group?

Empathy groups usually meet weekly, and whoever is in need of some empathy requests time. You can either select a member to be your empathizer, or let the whole group interact with you. I recommend that after each session, you discuss what worked and what didn't, so you can keep learning how to do empathy better and better.

What is an Empathy Buddy?

Empathy Buddies usually exchange sessions over the phone. Some buddies call daily, some people have more than one buddy, so they can have sessions whenever they want. Usually you share the time, and take some time at the end of the call to discuss what worked and what didn't, so you can keep learning how to do empathy better and better.

February 7th at Boomer U in Ambler
Peaceful Grand-parenting/Parenting:
How to Have Great Conversations With your Grandchildren and/or Children

Does it feel like you're missing some key skill to connect with the younger people in your life - no matter what their age? Do you spend precious time arguing over small stuff? Do you find yourself resorting to bribery to get your grandchildren to do things?

In this class, we'll teach you a few, simple-to-master skills that will empower you to communicate with young people successfully. Using NVC (Non-violent Communication), you'll learn how to respond to the young people in your life in a way that can transform potential conflict into win-win situations. Bring your real - life challenges and we'll help you develop new ways of dealing with old stuck places.
* $15/person, $20/couple

To Register for Boomer U:
Call 215.619.8863 or email them at [email protected]

Mail checks payable to: SAAC, 45 Forest Ave, Ambler, PA 19002 attn: Boomer U)

Directions: The address here is 45 Forest Ave. Ambler. We are between N. Ridge and N. Spring Garden just a couple of blocks north of the main street, Butler Ave. We have a large parking lot in the back. To enter the building, go to the right front of the lot and down the stairs.

Have you ever been to the Ambler movie theatre? (If it's on your left, turn right at the next light which is N. Ridge. Go a couple of blocks to Forest and turn left and we are on the right. It's a large stone building - used to be a middle school. The driveway is just before the building.)

Fall Empathy Class

And

Free NVC Practice Groups
with
Empathy Buddy Calls

When:
Tuesday Dec 18th, 2012

Where:
Rivers Manor, East Mt Airy, Phila

4 Day Request Intensive

November 8th-11th, 2012 (Thursday to Sunday)

When we have established our journey to hearing others empathically and expressing ourselves from our hearts, requests are how we connect to the life in others and help others understand the aliveness in us. They are also how we "get things done" in the context of this connection and understanding.

Requests are the practical and profound tools we can use to deepen connection and understanding, engender compassion and transcend conflict.

In this intensive we use the sum of skills and awareness developed in previous intensives to make NVC a powerful agent for connection and movement. In this advanced practice, requests help us reconnect to our needs and see our "demands." Requests give us an opportunity to transform how we see and act with others and to live in a "voluntary world".

This intensive imparts learning and integration through the introduction of concepts followed by exercises, practices and role plays. This is an advanced level training. Suggested experience is 80-100 hours of training. Topics include:

-Defining NVC Requests - Types of Requests
-Requests to Create Connection
-Hearing and Saying "No"
-Demands and Judgments
-Self-Empathy and Requests
-Using Requests in Dialog and Mediation
-Working with Intensity

Request Intensive:

Tuition and Fees for Entire Retreat:
Total is $660* as follows: Tuition only for all days is $360 Lodging and Food $300
*Payment plans and some work exchange are possible.

For registration and event details please visit: NVC Request Intensive 2012

12

When:
Tuesday's 7:30-9pm
Mar 13,20,27 Apr 3,10

Info:Register with MALT by clicking here for Adult Education Classes Philadelphia

If you've studied NVC or done Marriage Mediation with Max in the past, this Sunday afternoon event is the perfect way to recommit to your relationship.

We're learning new tools all the time, and we'll be teaching you some new skills, like:

This is a great way to keep working on your issues in a cost-effective, group setting. Everyone present will get some time each session. Couples report that they learn as much or more during the time they are watching other couples work on their issues - and it's a lot easier to listen to them!

Come alone or bring your spouse! The cost is the same:

Our Price: $200 for four sessions.

The $50/session includes you and your spouse!

Space is limited, so click below to register and pay online:

Your First Class Special Offer: If this is your first NVC Class, it's free!

Package Deal Special Offer: $60 for four classes to anyone who pays before the start of the first class. $70 if you pay for all four on the first class or $80 if you pay for every class.
Click here to register and pay online to get the discount!

When: Tuesday's 7:30-9pm Feb 1, 14, 21, 28

Where: Rivers Manor 508 E. Sedgwick St, Phila 19119

Foundations 1 members Special Offer: $50 for Foundations II classes if prepaid.

Info: Questions? Contact 215.266.0598 or [email protected]

Student Review: I just want to thank you again for the NVC classes that I took back in 2009 ... I feel like it has completely changed MY LIFE in a good way! :-) I keep meaning to thank you. 2010 was really a good year for me after those classes ... it's so much easier to connect with people,
	easier to resolve my own internal conflicts, and my friends comment on how calm and empathetic I am in a crisis and they seem to rely on me more often for someone to talk to. To be honest I haven't been consciously "trying to use NVC" ... it just affected my perspective in a very good and peaceful way. -Janie

All couples have disagreements, but why?

Did you know that research now shows the single best indicator of divorce is the way a couple speaks to each other?

In this class we'll explain what causes conflict, and teach you a few easy-to-learn techniques that will turn 80% of those potential arguments into opportunities for greater intimacy, instead of frustration and anger.

We'll share with you our skills as professional couples mediators and NVC* instructors.

Bring your spouse or come alone.

This class will also be helpful for people between relationships seeking to improve their partnership skills.

Cost: $19/person in advance (click here to register online); $29 at the door
When: Wed, Feb 8th, 2012 7:30-9:30pm

So NVC has resolved your conflicts, what's next?

The Pleasure Course!

Couples often come to Max with problems and issues that need resolving. Even after working through the Teamwork Mediation method, a lot of couples still have their focus on solving problems and keeping the peace.

But that's not why you got married, was it? NO! You wanted fun, pleasure, intimacy. So here is a cost-effective way for your and your spouse to learn the next set of skills after NVC: how to enjoy your spouse and your marriage.

This 3.5 hour class will teach you some new communication skills and games you can take home with you. (Note: no touching, or anything else which would be embarrasing for anyone - just a much more fun version of NVC-like communication techniques which will take your marriage to the next level.)

$100 includes you and your spouse!

Space is limited, so click below to register and pay online:

Your First Class Special Offer: If this is your first NVC Class, it's free!

Package Deal Special Offer: $40 for four classes to anyone who prepays* before first class (two free classes). $50 if you pay on the first class or $60 if you pay for every class.
Click here to register and pay online to get the discount!

When: Tuesday's 7:30-9pm Jan 10, 17, 24, 31

Where: Rivers Manor 508 E. Sedgwick St, Phila 19119

Foundations I+II+II Special Offer: Register for all three Foundations of NVC classes before Jan 1 for $150 ($180 if you prepaid* for each package separately, $310 if you registered for each class separately)

Students are required to have the book : Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life available during the first class for $25.

If you've studied NVC or done Marriage Mediation with Max in the past, this Sunday afternoon event is the perfect way to recommit to your relationship.

We're learning new tools all the time, and we'll be teaching you some new skills, like:

The Pleasure Game (how to enjoy your partner's upset)
A New Easier Form of Empathy (listening to your partner)
Using Judgments to uncover your (and your partner's) HIdden Needs
The Appreciation Game
and lots more

Come alone or bring your spouse! The cost is the same:

Our Price: $ $50 for this 3.5 hour playshop.

$50 includes you and your spouse!

Space is limited, so click below to register and pay online:

Series of 4 Sessions

From the convenience of your home, you and your spouse can join in this Mon nite class 8-9pm Jan 9,16,23 & 30th. All you need is a computer with a camera and the free Skype software.

For just $100 you get all 4 hr-long sessions.

Each couple will get the same help from Max, The Marriage Mediator, that private session couples get for $200/session.

Questions? Call or email Max. But hurry! Starts Jan 9th.

$100 includes you and your spouse!

Space is limited, so click below to register and pay online:

This class will teach you how to use a few simple linguistic techniques that we hypnotists use to help your charges relax, focus and become attentive listeners and learners. "Trance" is just a scary word for letting the open, creative, curious part of the mind (the unconscious) come to the surface.

Children spend most of their awake time (and all of their sleep time) in this state. This class will teach you how to guide your child, or even a whole class of children into this naturally receptive state with your choice of words, tone, etc. so they get the benefit of learning using the larger, more receptive part of their brains.

In one or two well crafted sentences I can take a noisy, chaotic class, and have them quietly attending to challenging, brand new information - enjoying participating calmly and feeling deeply involved.

This should be a required class for all teachers and parents. I look forward to sharing these skills with you. (No charge for teachers in Philly public schools.)

$19, free for teachers in the Philadelphia Public Schools

All couples have disagreements, but why?

Did you know that research now shows the single best indicator of divorce is the way a couple speaks to each other?

In this class we'll explain what causes conflict, and teach you a few easy-to-learn techniques that will turn 80% of those potential arguments into opportunities for greater intimacy, instead of frustration and anger.

We'll share with you our skills as professional couples mediators and NVC* instructors.

Bring your spouse or come alone.

This class will also be helpful for people between relationships seeking to improve their partnership skills.

$19/person

Compassionate Communication Practice Group

Judy Morgan is interested in creating a practice Group. Free!

Alternate Thursdays, 6 to 7:30 pm, at the home of Judy Morgan in Mt. Airy.

Will include reading passages from Rosenberg and others, discussion, and role plays, collaboratively led.

If you are interested, contact her at [email protected].

6 day NVC Residential Intensive with Miki Kashtan

Date: August 5 - 10, 2011
Place: The Abode, New Lebanon, NY
Start Time: Friday, August 5th /2pm [Optional lunch]
End Time: Wednesday, August 10th/3pm

" Find a way to make your use of NVC sound natural
" Adapt your language to different circumstances
" Learn to connect across cultural differences
" Bring NVC to your workplace without sounding "touchy-feely"
" Experience the difference between a practice setting and real life
" Distinguish between living the consciousness of NVC and using certain linguistic forms
Miki Kashtan, with laser like insight and understanding, will guide and support retreat participants through discussion, exercises, group work and role plays in a way that will expand the capacity to use our own words while staying in NVC consciousness.

This residential retreat is geared towards people at various levels of skill, ranging from people who want fluidity in their use of the language to NVC trainers who want to increase their capacity to share NVC in a variety of settings.

The intention of this residential retreat is to support you in:

" Reaching more flow with NVC to have your NVC practice feel and become natural.?
" Strengthen your ability to connect across differences.?
" Expand your confidence in applying NVC in any context
" Teach core principles to inspire people

COST: Tuition -$800-1600, Room & Board - $390-$625
More info
www.baynvc.org
Shivani Carroll at [email protected]
Lorili Henry at [email protected]

P.S. $80 bus from NYC round trip on Peter Pan

June (cancelled)

Everyone is curious about hypnosis:

• Can I be hypnotized?
• Will you make me cluck like a chicken?
• Can you stop me from smoking?

And so many more. Max does a form of hypnosis called "Natural Trance." It is a relaxing, restful state that everyone can go into, and which can help with any issue which is controlled by the unconsicous (sleep, long-term issues like habits, physical pain, emotions, etc.)

In this experiential class, you'll learn what hypnosis really is, and get to experience a light trance. For some of you, this single session may be enough to change life-long habits.

*To prepay, send check made out to Max Rivers Mediation to 508 E Sedgwick St, Phila 19119 or call number below with credit card info. Prepayments are nonrefundable.

Package Deal Special Offer: $80 for four classes to anyone who pays before the first class. $90 if you pay for all four on the first class or $100 if you pay for every class.

Students are required to have the book : Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life available during the first class for $20.

Our first Transitional Lead Trainer-lead IIT will be held in Rowe, Massachusetts, USA, April 13-22, 2011, with John Kinyon as Transitional Lead Trainer, and Barbara Larson and Doug Dolstad as Support Trainers - all of them experienced IIT trainers. John has been working closely with Marshall for the last 14 years, including being a Support Trainer at over 20 IITs, while Barbara and Doug have been Support Trainers at IITs for the last 6 years. The IIT will be held at the beautiful Rowe Camp & Conference Center, a location where both Marshall and John have enjoyed holding trainings in the past.

In celebration of the recently re-opened certification process, and in hopes that it may support our registered certification candidates’ flow of training, we would like to offer registered certification candidates a 15% discount in the April 13-22, 2011 IIT in Rowe, Massachusetts, USA. Regular tuition is $1,800, which makes registered certification candidates’ tuition at this IIT $1,530. Previous IIT participants are also eligible for a 15% discount. Please note: accommodation and travel are additional charges, as noted in the Basic Information Sheet. These offers does not combine with the 10% "Early Bird discount" for participants paying in full by February 12, 2011.

For further details, see https://www.cnvc.org/training/international-intensive-trainings-iits.html

This highly experiential introductory intensive focuses on the
core practices of Compassionate Listening.

" Cultivating compassion for yourself and others
" Suspending judgment
" Maintaining balance in the heat of conflict
" Listening with the heart
" Speaking from the heart

Leah Green is the founder of the Compassionate Listening Project. The curriculum has grown from her decades of reconciliation work with Israelis and Palestinians, as well as the remarkable community of Compassionate Listening facilitators. Leah has produced three documentaries, and co-founded the Jewish-German Compassionate Listening Project. She received the 2003 Yoga Journal Award for Selfless Service; her work has been profiled in numerous books and articles. Leah facilitates and teaches worldwide.

Cost / Registration: Sliding scale: $175-$350. Register with a $100 deposit and pay the remainder
at the end, according to your perceived value and ability to pay. Partial Scholarships are available for those in need.

To register online: http://arcadiauniversity2011.eventbrite.com/ or call: 360-626-4411.

Compassionate Listening Project
P.O. Box 17
Indianola, WA 98342
360.626.4411
www.compassionatelistening.org

Your First Class Special Offer: If this is your first NVC Class, it's free!

Package Deal Special Offer: $40 for four classes to anyone who prepays* before first class (two free classes). $50 if you pay on the first class or $60 if you pay for every class.

Foundations I+II+II Special Offer: Register for all three Foundations of NVC classes before Jan 1 for $150 ($180 if you prepaid* for each package separately, $310 if you registered for each class separately)

Students are required to have the book : Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life available during the first class for $25.

Take your skills, understanding and practice of self-empathy and empathy to a new level. Learn practices you can use to create more harmony, flow and meaning in your life, not only through the New Year, but for the rest of your life!

Want to know more? Click here.

When: Thursday, January 6th, 1 - 4:30pm
Friday - Sunday, 9:30 - 4:30

Where: NYCNVC 36 East 23rd Street, (Btwn Park South & Madison) Suite 6R, NY, NY 10010

Tuition for 4 days is $360

Registration: by phone (646 201 9226) or email ([email protected]). Phone call includes a dialogue (usually 5-10 minutes) regarding your NVC experience, physical needs and comfort, training needs, understanding of details (times, dates, payments and so forth), plus any preparation we imagine would add to your learning.
Kim, The Event Coordinator
NY Center for Nonviolent Communication

Info:Register with MALT by clicking here for Adult Education Classes Philadelphia

Package Deal Special Offer: $100 for six classes to anyone who pre-pays before the first class or $150 on first day of class.

Students are required to have the book : Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life available during the first class for $25.

Your First Class Special Offer: If this is your first NVC Class ever, it's free!

Package Deal Special Offer: $75 for six classes to anyone who pre-pays before the first class.

Students are required to have the book : Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life available during the first class for $25.

When: Sat Jan 16th, 2010

Mornings: 1st + 3rd Thursdays 11:30-1pm - starting Sep 3rd, 2009

Info: Questions? Contact Max at 215.266.0598 or [email protected]

Bring lunch if you wish.

Your First Class Special Offer: If this is your first NVC Class, it's free!

Package Deal Special Offer: $40 for four classes to anyone who pays before first class (two free classes). $50 if you pay on the first class or $60 if you pay for every class.

Students are required to have the book : Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life available during the first class for $20.

Your First Class Special Offer: If this is your first NVC Class, it's free!

Package Deal Special Offer: $60 for five classes to anyone who pays before the first class (three free classes). $85 if you pay for all six on the first class or $100 if you pay for every class.

Students are required to have the book : Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life available during the first class for $20.

When: Sun 8/30/2009; or Sun 9/27/2009; or Sun 10/18/2009

When: or Thursday Feb 19, 2009; Thursday March 26, 2009;

When: Friday, June 5, 7- 9 pm;

Saturday & Sunday, June 6 & 7, 9:30 - 4:30 pm

Cost: : Friday evening: sliding scale $25.00 to $10

Saturday and Sunday: $270 (includes simple vegetarian lunches).

$25 early-bird discount if you register before May 8. With sign up before May 8, you pay $270 for the whole weekend and can bring a friend or family member for only half the full weekend price.

Info: 814-355-0850 or [email protected]

For more details or to register visit: www.ahimsavillage.org

Facilitator: Martha Lasley is a certified trainer for the Center for Nonviolent Communication, a global organization that helps people connect compassionately. Martha is the author of two books: Courageous Visions and Facilitating with Heart.

About the Facilitators

John and Ike have each been training with NVC for 10 years and have been developing and evolving their mediation approach for the past 7 years, beginning with a journey together to the Pakistan-Afghanistan border to work with Afghan tribal elders in 2002, shortly after the bombings following 9/11. From this experience they saw first hand that despite cultural differences and multiple language translations, the NVC mediation process produced connection and collaborative resolution, even with a real dispute that came alive in the room during the training. For more information about John and Ike, visit their websites, www.johnkinyon.com and www.wordsthatwork.us.

�Ike and John�s training has offered me the steepest learning curve I have found for incorporating NVC into my life.� � class participant

Evenings: 4th Sunday 6-7pm - starting January 18, 2009

Evenings: 1st+3rd Sunday 7-9pm - starting January 18, 2009
Mornings: 2nd+4th Thursdays 10am-noon - starting January 22, 2008

When: Four Wednesdays

Info: