Stronger Together: Reflections from the FCM Annual Conference in Ottawa

From May 29 to 31, we had the privilege of participating in the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Annual Conference and Trade Show, hosted right here in Ottawa. This year’s theme, Stronger Together, resonated deeply with us at the Canadian Institute for Conflict Resolution (CICR), as it beautifully captures the spirit of collaboration and community that drives our work.

Over the course of three vibrant days, we had the opportunity to connect with a wide range of dedicated professionals—from mayors and councillors to municipal staff and CAOs—all committed to the shared goal of building stronger, more resilient communities.

It was inspiring to witness the genuine interest in how conflict resolution training can enhance teamwork, improve communication, and support healthier organizational cultures within municipalities. Whether it was a brief conversation at our booth or a deeper dialogue about the challenges facing today’s municipal leaders, every exchange reminded us of the critical role human connection plays in public service.

We’re especially grateful to everyone who stopped by to ask questions, share stories, and explore how our training can fit into their community-building efforts. Events like this are a powerful reminder that collaboration is not just a strategy—it’s a mindset. And when we invest in the people behind the policies and services, we truly become stronger together.

At CICR, we specialize in building the capacity of individuals, teams, and organizations to navigate and transform conflict through our proven programs. Whether it's our one-day immersion workshops, flagship Third Party Neutral (TPN) 160 hours certificate, or tailored training sessions; our approach equips people with the tools to foster healthier communication and stronger collaboration.

If you didn’t get a chance to connect with us at FCM, we’re currently offering:

• A one-day workshop tailored specifically for municipal staff 

• A one-hour strategic info session for CAOs and senior leadership

  
  

Let’s continue to strengthen our communities—together. Sign-up now!