Join us in ensuring peace and safety.
Consider Restorative Justice (RJ) for your conflicts.
If you or someone you care about has been involved in an incident where harm was caused or experienced, RJ may be an option to consider.
RJ is a voluntary process that promotes healing and accountability through facilitated conversations. Connection First facilitates free RJ conferences for incidents that occurred in Leon and surrounding counties.
Community referrals can be made around almost any harm or conflict. Conflict happens daily. If there is any situation that seems too overwhelming to handle alone, or you simply would like extra support from professionals in conflict resolution, make a referral. We can always discuss the issue with you and let you know if it is appropriate for our services.
Our mission is to cultivate peace and healing through human connection. We do this with restorative practices and nonviolent communication.
We are based in Tallahassee, Florida.
Guiding Principles
“Why Connection First? Before we can solve our problems, we must first have presence, listen, and understand each others’ needs. In other words, we must first connect.”
— Prof. Jeremiah W. Murphy, PhD (CFI President)
“Every criticism, judgment, diagnosis, and expression of anger is the tragic expression of an unmet need.”
— Dr. Marshall Rosenberg
“Connection is the energy that exists between people when they [experience being] seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.”
— Prof. Brené Brown, PhD
