A Toast to Kids

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Sally Niemer

A Toast to Kids: Fundraising Cocktail party for Conflict Resolution for Kids

Conflict Resolution for Kids, commonly known as CR4K, will host a fundraising cocktail reception on Friday, Oct. 16, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Daniel Island Club, 600 Island Park Drive in Charleston.

The event comes at a particularly meaningful time. October is National Bullying Prevention Month, which promotes kindness, acceptance and inclusion, and Oct. 15 marks Conflict Resolution Day. Together, these observances underscore the importance of equipping children with the communication, problem-solving and decision-making skills they need to approach difficult situations thoughtfully.

“Children are extraordinarily capable problem-solvers, especially when they are given tools, time and encouragement,” said Catherine Wilhoit, founder and executive director of Conflict Resolution for Kids. “Our goal is to introduce the fundamentals of conflict resolution education early, in ways that are engaging and developmentally appropriate, so children can practice thoughtful communication, find goals rather than fear problems, and recognize the power of thoughtful, kind choices made with calm minds and hearts.”

The Oct. 16 benefit will feature cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and, for those who are interested, an interactive experience demonstrating how CR4K uses creativity, play and group problem-solving to make sophisticated conflict resolution concepts accessible to children.

Guests will also have an opportunity to support specific areas of CR4K’s work through a fund-a-need appeal. Giving opportunities will include providing a teacher with a seat in graduate level professional development course and placing books and learning materials in classrooms.

CR4K’s mission is to make conflict resolution education accessible and enjoyable for children and the communities surrounding them, including educators, parents, schools and nonprofit partners. Its programming draws upon the Addressing Basic Conflict framework and incorporates professional development, parent education, youth programming, original children’s literature and practical classroom resources.

The organization’s programs help children learn to listen in multiple ways, identify goals, consider options and make thoughtful choices. CR4K’s approach focuses on preparing children before challenging situations arise rather than asking them to solve personal conflicts publicly in the classroom.

Wilhoit, a Charleston resident, attorney and certified mediator, has spent more than 16 years studying, developing and implementing conflict resolution education for children and adults. She is an adjunct instructor with the College of Charleston’s Office of Professional Development in Education and previously served as chair of the South Carolina Bar’s Dispute Resolution Section. Her experience also includes service as a qualified South Carolina family mediator, certified civil mediator, qualified circuit court arbitrator and former adjunct professor of alternative dispute resolution at the Charleston School of Law.

Proceeds from the event will help CR4K expand access to conflict resolution education, equip more teachers and parents, develop classroom resources and bring these important skills to additional children and communities.

For event information, sponsorship opportunities or to support Conflict Resolution for Kids, visit [https://givebutter.com/toasttokids] or contact [sally@conflictresolutionkids.org].

Media Note: Catherine Wilhoit is available for interviews. CR4K logos, photographs and program images are available upon request.