The VPCR program was originated in 1995. It is a collaborative effort of the NJ Child Assault Prevention (CAP) project and the Creative Response to Conflict (CRC) of Nyack, New York. CAP has long been a model for protecting and empowering children through primary prevention, education and CRC is nationally recognized as the leading program in the area of conflict resolution.

VPCR , drawing on the strengths of both programs, does the following:

 -Encourages development of a problem solving approach to conflict
 -Enhances communication skills
 -Builds affirmation and cooperation skills

VPCR workshops are designed to train school staff, parents and 4th, 5th and 6th graders in a variety of conflict resolution skills.

The 5 day, one hour per day presentations are experiential and interactive. They give the students a warm, supportive environment in which to build a sense of trust and community within the classroom and school.

Comments about the program:

"Two students resolved a real conflict on the fourth day of the program using 'I- messages'! Both students had obviously learned something from CAP's VPCR program."
- Teacher, 5th Grade, Gloucester County

"We have used some of the affirmation techniques in a pen pal lesson, and the students are always using the listening/non-listening chart. Small squabbles have suddenly disappeared." - Teacher, 4th Grade, Monmouth County

"Upper grades could benefit from these skills and this non-violent approach to understanding and dealing with conflict. Less and less, students seem to be taught elsewhere about non-violent ways to assert self and handle disagreements."
- Hudson County