Programs

The use of trained, neutral mediators in a consensual decision-making process to assist people, organizations, and communities in conflict to achieve any of the following goals:

• Clarity for all parties regarding what the conflict is actually about and how to approach it

• Outcomes of the parties' own choosing

• Mutually improved communication, trust, recognition, empowerment, understanding or empathy among the parties

• Limited or avoided involvement in competitive proceedings (judicial, legislative, administrative, political)

• Resolution of a tangible problem or dispute

• Resolution of underlying conflicts

• Prevention against recurring problems

The value fundamental to the practice of mediation is that the affected parties themselves best accomplish dispute resolution; the mediator's role is to assist them in overcoming barriers to self-directed dispute resolution. To that end, it is never appropriate for mediators to render decisions on the issues in dispute.