An Antidote To Division

Through a holistic, evidence-based approach, WJC reduces conflict, builds belonging, raises achievement, and equips young people to become leaders of positive change.

Ways To Give

About Us

For nearly 40 years, the Western Justice Center (WJC) has been a leader in conflict resolution education, partnering with schools and communities across the Greater Los Angeles Area. WJC helps K-12 schools implement restorative practices as trauma-informed alternatives to punitive discipline, supporting systemic and sustainable change for lasting impact. Our programs help the highest-need students lead positive change in their schools and communities—proving that with the right tools, every student can thrive.

Our Impact

When students are equipped with the skills to resolve conflict peacefully, to listen with empathy, and to lead their communities, they don’t just feel safer at school. They learn more. They show up more. They become more. At Western Justice Center (WJC), we empower youth, educators, and communities with conflict resolution skills that foster safe, inclusive schools and long-term success. Conflict resolution is a vital life skill—supporting personal growth, workplace readiness, civic engagement, and community leadership.

Our Reach

38

Partner schools across
Los Angeles County

4,000+

Students, educators and volunteers trained and mobilized to use conflict resolution and restorative practices

30,000+

Young people are now in learning environments that use conflict resolution techniques

For School Districts

    Collaborative Partnerships

    WJC’s collaborative partnerships embed restorative practices across entire school systems, empowering youth and elevating student voice to create cultural transformation rooted in trust and connection. Our reach extends countywide, training leaders and building networks that sustain conflict resolution education and amplify youth leadership for years to come. Learn More

      For Students & Teachers

        Youth Peacebuilding Summit

        At the heart of our community is the Youth Peacebuilding Summit—an annual celebration where students, educators, and community members from across LA County come together to learn, connect, and inspire each other to create safer, more inclusive schools. Learn More

          For Schools

            Conflict Resolution Training

            Conflict Resolution Education is both our foundation and our engine. Our evidence-based programs empower students to lead change, support educators to model care and accountability, and equip entire school communities with the skills to build trust and resolve conflict. Learn More

              For Organizations

                A Campus For Nonprofits

                Experience affordable office and meeting space at our historic Western Justice Center campus, home to nearly 20 nonprofits. Join a vibrant community, access shared resources, or host your next meeting, training, or special event at our iconic Maxwell House—all while supporting programs that strengthen our region. Learn More

                  For Teachers

                    School Tools

                    Our online resource hub was built as a conflict resolution education toolbox for K–12 school staff and students. Educators can access lesson plans for their peer mediation classes/clubs and find first-rate resources on a variety of conflict resolution topics. The site is enhanced with original videos for a rich and interactive learning experience. Learn More

                      "There are so many buckets principals have to fill to meet student needs. The Western Justice Center partnership helps us fill those buckets in ways that actually move students forward. With this partnership, we’re not just hoping kids thrive. We’re creating systems that make it possible."

                       

                      Principal, Dalton Elementary School
                      Azusa Unified School District

                      "I grew up all the way to 11th grade feeling like I was disconnected from my culture entirely.  However, once I had those [restorative] circles, I saw that I had a community around me that actually shared the same themes through the same experiences that I did, I felt like I finally connected with my community."

                       

                      12th Grade Student
                      Reflecting on the impact of circles

                      "When you're doing a Circle, you're talking to the people around you and you're learning more about each other. Everyone is able to talk about your issues. It allows you to take away from your personal problems. By communicating your issues and by understanding that everybody else has issues, you realize that you're not alone."

                       

                       8th Grade Student
                      Explaining circles’ impact on belonging

                      Stay Connected. Build Peace.

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                      Our Funders & Partners

                      55 South Grand Avenue,
                      Pasadena, CA 91105
                      (626) 584-7494

                            

                      #BuildingPeaceTogether