Center for Council fosters authentic communication and advances peace, justice and connection. Center for Council offers training, coaching and support in Council facilitation to individuals and organizations--including educators, healthcare providers, therapists and business leaders--and builds Council-based programming for a variety of Community-Based Organizations, businesses, service agencies, and faith-based groups (as well as prisons, youth centers, health care facilities and company groups). Council is a modern practice derived from many ancient forms of communicating in a circle. Sometimes referred to as "Listening Circles", Council utilizes a center, a circle, and a talking piece to create an intentional space in which to share our stories. The practice of deep listening without judgement fosters an atmosphere of respect for ourselves and for others and promotes empathy, dissolving barriers to cooperation, understanding and community. Initiated and developed over two decades by The Ojai Foundation, Center for Council will officially relaunch under the fiscal sponsorship of Community Partners, in Summer 2014.