ORNCC History

Inspired by Dr. Marshall Rosenberg and his process of Nonviolent Communication, a small group of people started ORNCC in 2001 with the dream of spreading NVC throughout Oregon. We began to gather enthusiastic volunteers in Bend, Eugene, Portland, Salem and Vancouver to form regional core teams for coordinating local NVC activities, such as classes, practice groups, and bringing Marshall and other trainers to Oregon. In 2004, ORNCC incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization so that ORNCC could receiving tax-deductible donations and grants for projects.

ORNCC Accomplishments

Since 2001, ORNCC has increased ten-fold the number of people who have been exposed to, and are practicing Compassionate Communication in Oregon and Southwest Washington! Other accomplishments include:

• Sponsoring and promoting multiple workshops with Marshall Rosenberg and other CNVC trainers.
• Helping to develop core volunteer teams in Portland, Eugene, Bend, and Salem for supporting and promoting NVC.
• Developing an interactive website for permanent presence on the Web.
• Developing NVC workshop promotion and coordination, and team coordination toolkits with forms and processes, which were adopted by PuddleDancer Press for worldwide use.
• Hosting a Restorative Justice Conference in Salem with Marshall Rosenberg, Mark Umbright, leaders in the State Prison System, and community. Sponsoring practice groups in state prisons, and donating books to the inmates.

What is ORNCC's Unique Role in our Region?

• Spreading NVC: ORNCC aims to spread the tools and consciousness of compassion by spreading NVC in this region. We have done, and will continue to do this by assertively establishing and promoting NVC activities throughout the region. Our goal is not to support one or a few trainers (although that happens as a result of our work); our goal is to provide as many people as possible with the tools and understanding of NVC . . . whether or not they can afford the training. As a non-profit, we operate for the benefit of the public.
• Networking and Information Web: ORNCC aims to support people in learning, practice and support opportunities by maintaining a network of information and a database of contacts. Integrating NVC into our lives requires the support of a larger community, which our network offers. This network of NVC "activists" provides a field of possibilities for further development of groups, projects, and initiatives towards spreading NVC consciousness. This website is an example; serving as a permanent bulleting board allowing people to tap into this field.
• Social Change: In addition to supporting people in developing communication, peace-making and personal growth skills, ORNCC is uniquely driven by a desire to create a vibrant and powerful movement for shifting our cultural, social and institutional structures towards operating within a life-serving paradigm. This goal is evident in our community projects and our attempts and creating teamwork and synergy between local NVC trainers, groups, and practitioners.

What can ORNCC do for Me?

What type of support would you like? We are a constantly evolving organization and revel in co-creation. We welcome your suggestions, questions, and requests. Just give one of us a phone call or email - let's connect!

ORNCC Board Operation

The ORNCC board meets 4 to 6 times per year, usually rotating between Eugene and Portland. Each September, we ask for new volunteers to serve on the board and governing council. We invite you to join us in this fulfilling service. Regional core teams also meet regularly in local communities. Use the sidebar to the left to learn more about what's happening in your area.