AIDAN was created with a simple yet powerful idea: to promote peace, understanding, and inclusion through the art and practice of mediation. But this work cannot be accomplished alone. It requires people—people with empathy, commitment, and a desire to help others live better together. This is why we invite you to join us.
Whether you are a professional mediator, a student, a resident who believes in dialogue, or simply someone who wants to contribute positively to your community, there is a place for you at AIDAN. In this section, we explain how and why you might want to get involved with us, what roles are available, and what impact your contribution can make.
Why Join AIDAN?
There are many associations doing valuable work in France, particularly in the social and civic sectors. What makes AIDAN unique is our human-centered approach to resolving everyday conflicts and supporting local life projects.
We believe that conflict is not inherently destructive—it can be an opportunity for change and growth when handled with care, neutrality, and skill. We also believe that access to rights is a cornerstone of a just society, and that many people still face invisible barriers in their daily lives. And we believe that community participation—when supported and respected—can be transformative.
When you join AIDAN, you become part of a dynamic, field-based team that works closely with residents, institutions, and local actors to create calm, communication, and cohesion.
But beyond the missions, you join a culture of care. Our association fosters a respectful and open environment, where listening is central, and where contributions—big or small—are valued.
Who Can Join?
We welcome individuals from all walks of life. You do not need to be a certified mediator or a legal expert. What matters most is your willingness to learn, your respect for others, and your ability to act with discretion and neutrality.
You can join AIDAN in various ways:
- As a Member: Support our values and activities through a small annual membership fee. Members are kept informed of our activities and can participate in our general assemblies.
- As a Volunteer: Get involved on a more regular basis by contributing your time and skills to our fieldwork, community events, or administrative operations.
- As a Partner: If you are part of an institution, school, housing office, or organization that shares our values, we welcome collaborative efforts to co-develop initiatives.
- As a Trainee or Intern: For students or professionals looking for hands-on experience in mediation, social work, community organizing, or related fields.
Whether you are looking to commit long-term or help occasionally, there is a way to fit your availability and strengths into our ecosystem.
What You Can Do
Joining AIDAN means becoming part of our collective mission. Here are some of the concrete activities you may take part in:
1. Community Mediation
If trained or interested in learning, you may help in facilitating conversations between individuals or groups experiencing tension—such as neighbors, tenants and property managers, or public service users and staff. You’ll be guided in how to listen actively, stay neutral, and guide the parties toward mutual understanding.
2. Youth Engagement
We often work in environments where young people feel marginalized or unheard. You may assist with projects aimed at creating dialogue, building self-confidence, or involving youth in decision-making and local initiatives.
3. Access to Rights Support
Many of our beneficiaries face complex or discouraging administrative systems. You could help by orienting individuals, accompanying them in procedures, or assisting in the creation of user-friendly resources that simplify access to essential services.
4. Public Events and Dialogue Spaces
We host or co-organize neighborhood events that bring people together—round tables, open cafés, local forums. Your help in preparing and facilitating these events is always appreciated.
5. Translation and Cultural Mediation
In diverse areas, cultural differences can lead to misunderstanding. If you speak multiple languages or are familiar with different cultural norms, your contribution as a translator or cultural bridge can be essential.
6. Administrative and Communication Support
Behind the scenes, we need help with writing reports, managing emails, updating materials, and occasionally representing us in meetings. If you have skills in writing, communication, or project management, you could assist our coordination team.
What You Will Gain
AIDAN believes that volunteering or joining a cause should be mutually enriching. While your support benefits others, you too gain valuable experience, learning, and human connection.
- Personal Growth: Working in mediation enhances your communication, empathy, and problem-solving abilities. You’ll gain confidence in handling complex situations with calm and clarity.
- Professional Experience: If you are studying or transitioning careers, your involvement at AIDAN can offer hands-on skills that are increasingly sought after—especially in the fields of social work, urban development, education, and law.
- Social Belonging: You become part of a caring and committed team. We believe in shared leadership, support, and collaboration.
- Meaningful Impact: You will directly contribute to improving relationships, reducing social tension, and empowering individuals.
Our Expectations
Because our work often involves sensitive situations and vulnerable individuals, we have high ethical standards. If you wish to join us, we ask that you:
- Commit to confidentiality and non-judgmental attitudes
- Respect our internal code of conduct
- Be punctual and reliable, especially when engaging with residents
- Maintain discretion and humility in the field
- Stay open to learning and feedback
We provide orientation and training where needed, and you are never sent alone into complex situations without support.
How to Get Started
Joining AIDAN is simple. Here is how:
- Contact Us
Send an email to admin@zihuy.com with your name, location, background, and your motivation for joining. Let us know if you are interested in volunteering, membership, or internship. - Come Visit Us
We are based at 58 Rue des Cèdres, 91270 Vigneux-sur-Seine. If you live nearby, feel free to drop by during our open hours (please email in advance). Meeting face-to-face is a great way to get to know each other. - Initial Meeting
We will invite you for an introductory conversation to better understand your availability, interests, and how we can best work together. - Orientation
New volunteers receive a short orientation about AIDAN’s mission, field of action, and core mediation principles. Depending on your involvement, further training may be available.
Become Part of a Positive Force
At a time when divisions seem to deepen and trust between individuals and institutions is weakening, we believe in building bridges. Not abstract ones—but real, practical ones, made of dialogue, empathy, and courage.
If that speaks to you, we invite you to stand with us.
Join AIDAN. Bring your presence. Share your voice. Help build peace one conversation at a time.