What is CORE PLUS?

The COnflict REsolution PLUS system provides impartial and confidential assistance to any DOI employee seeking to improve or resolve a work place issue or concern. CORE PLUS is available to all employees and managers including bargaining unit employees, when the union elects to participate. CORE PLUS offers information and assistance on problem solving options. Assistance options include:

  • Confidential consultation,
  • Individual conflict coaching,
  • Communication and conflict management training,
  • Climate assessment,
  • Group facilitation,
  • Team-building, and
  • Conciliation and mediation services.

The DOI's Department Manual Chapter (370 DM 770) provides policy, procedures, and requirements for the Department's CORE PLUS Program. The CORE PLUS Program is an alternative to the other adversarial dispute resolution processes. It replaces two existing workplace alternative dispute resolution Programs: CORE, previously under the direction of the Office of Human Resources, and EEO PLUS, previously under the direction of the Office of Civil Rights. CORE PLUS is an integrated conflict management system that emphasizes early cooperative problem-solving and constructive conflict management in addition to alternative dispute resolution processes.

CORE PLUS does not replace any other complaint process available to DOI employees such as a grievance, EEO complaint, or whistle-blower complaint. Anyone seeking CORE PLUS assistance will be encouraged to learn about all of their options and will be referred to the appropriate point of contact for reliable information on other processes.

How do I get CORE PLUS assistance? 

While RACA no longer provides assistance in this area, CORE PLUS is easy to access by contacting an Organizational Ombudsman or the DOI's Collaborative Action and Dispute Resolution (CADR) office/staff member. Information on CORE PLUS should also be available through your supervisor, Human Resources office, EEO office of any EEO Counselor. You can always find information on CORE PLUS online at the DOI CADR web site.