BEAM: Broadening Equity and Access in Mediation

A new fellowship to support candidates throughout the journey of becoming a mediator, from the Professional Mediation Training through the Mediation Practicum Program and on to mediator certification.

Thanks to the generosity of the James B. Boskey Foundation, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of the BEAM Fellowship. BEAM springs from the WDRC’s commitment to honoring our region’s rich tapestry of communities and nurturing mediators who represent, connect, and resonate with clients of all backgrounds and identities.

The BEAM Fellowship uniquely supports successful candidates over the full trajectory of becoming a certified mediator. Through the Fellowship, the WDRC aspires to increase the racial, ethnic, and language diversity of the mediator pool serving Whatcom County.

The BEAM Fellowship includes:

Explore the drop-down menu below for full details.

Applications for the inaugural Fall 2026 BEAM Fellows cohort are due on Tuesday, September 1.

APPLY NOW!

  • Mediation is a transformative method for resolving disputes, deepening understanding across differences, improving communication, and strengthening relationships. Interest-based mediation draws from a variety of powerful sources, including Indigenous practices and the United States Civil Rights Movement. Fellows will learn the art and science of mediation and build a valuable skill set to apply in their personal lives, workplace, and community.

    The BEAM Fellowship includes:

  • We’re seeking candidates with robust community involvement and a strong interest in mediation who see themselves staying engaged with the WDRC and Whatcom County for years to come.

    Our goal is to support BEAM Fellows throughout the journey from Professional Mediation Training to becoming certified as a mediator with the WDRC. This process takes approximately 18-24 months to complete. We expect BEAM Fellows to:

    • Live in Whatcom County and plan to remain in the area

    • Participate in our 40-hour Professional Mediation Training

    • Apply for our Mediation Practicum Program

    • Complete the Practicum Program

    • Complete a certification review and become certified to mediate with the WDRC

    • Volunteer as a mediator with the WDRC

  • The BEAM Fellowship is an intentional effort to increase the racial, ethnic, cultural, and language diversity of mediators serving Whatcom County. We welcome applications from individuals who identify with one or more of the following:

    • Black, Indigenous, or among other communities of color

    • Multiracial

    • Multiethnic

    • Bilingual and bicultural

    Additionally, we’ll prioritize applicants with a:

    • Demonstrated interest in community involvement and passion for peacebuilding

    • Strong interest in serving as a volunteer mediator with the WDRC once certified

    • September 1, 2026: BEAM Fellowship applications due

    • September 25, 2026: WDRC responds to Fellowship applicants

    • October 21, 2026: Professional Mediation Training begins

  • If the BEAM Fellowship isn’t the right fit, we also offer limited Need-Based Scholarships. Need-Based Scholarships lower the cost of the Professional Mediation Training for participants who otherwise wouldn’t be able to attend.

    Applicants are welcome to apply for one or both funding opportunities. If we’re unable to award you a BEAM Fellowship, you may be considered for a Need-Based Scholarship if you’ve also submitted a Need-Based Scholarship application.

  • “I would highly recommend the WDRC mediation training to any professional looking to strengthen their communication toolkit. It exceeded my expectations and has had an immediate, positive impact on my practice. The instructors created an engaging, supportive environment that made even complex concepts feel practical and accessible. I left the training with a much deeper understanding of conflict dynamics, active listening, and interest-based negotiation—skills I’ve already begun applying in my work with families and colleagues.” - 2025 Professional Mediation Training Participant

    “From this training, I came away with a clear understanding of the interest-based mediation process. Mock mediations offered opportunities to apply learnings, practice new skills, experiment, and refine approaches. It was rooted in identifying possibilities and offered ample, practical support. This was a very comprehensive learning experience that I’d recommend to others.” - 2025 Professional Mediation Training Participant

    “The mediation training has transformed my approach to communication and conflict resolution. I'm more confident in my ability to understand others' perspectives and find common ground. The WDRC team's guidance, support, expertise, empathy, and commitment to creating a safe learning space were instrumental in my growth.” - 2024 Professional Mediation Training Participant

“[Professional Mediation Training] is transformational and instantaneously applicable. I would highly recommend this course for anyone who wants to... facilitate peace in their personal lives and within their community.”
— 2025 Professional Mediation Training Participant