Mission & Philosophy

“On both sides”

“Anoka” is derived from a-no-ka-tan-han, a phrase from the Dakota language that means “on both sides of the river.” This is the center of our mission as mediators and peacemakers. We help people build bridges across divisions by facilitating empathy, understanding, effective communications, and helping you move toward workable compromises and creative solutions that bring closure to conflict.

two people shake hands in front of a detailed wooden room divider. Only their hands and upper arms are in the frame.

Cooperation and communication are a better alternative to resolving conflicts and disagreements than litigation and combat where one side “wins” and one side “loses.” The adversarial approach is often far more costly, emotionally draining, time consuming, and frustrating . . . even if you ultimately “win.” Mediation empowers people to resolve disagreements on their terms, brings more lasting closure and can preserve (and even strengthen) relationships and communities.

At Anoka Conflict Solutions, LLC, we believe that understanding the unique perspectives, experiences and values of all parties is essential to resolving a dispute, and fostering meaningful and lasting resolutions to conflict. Our mission is to facilitate respectful communication that honors the subjective experiences of each individual, guiding them towards a peaceful way forward.

We are committed to building stronger, more effective relationships and lasting, meaningful peace by creating a space where all voices are heard, where common ground is discovered, and where every person feels empowered in shaping the world around them. Through empathy, impartiality, and dedication to transformative communication, we strive to turn discord into opportunity, empowering people to move forward with clarity and confidence.