Community Mediation Initiative (CMI)

Do you ever find yourself involved in conflict? Would you know where to go or who to talk to? Do you find satisfaction in helping others resolve their conflicts?

The Community Mediation Initiative (CMI) is the Center for Conflict Resolution's pre-eminent service program.  The program's goals are to empower community members to mediate community disputes and  to provide access to mediation services at various locations throughout the lower eastern shore region. The program will offer mediation services free of charge to individuals and organizations involved in conflict who wish to preserve their respective relationships.

Interested individuals may become trained community mediators and gain experience in the process of mediation, through volunteering for CMI Cases. These mediation cases will range from neighborhood disagreements to business and family disputes. Interested? Give us a call! (410) 219-2873.

CMI Mediation Brochure (pdf)

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a confidential process in which a trained neutral third party, or mediator, helps people in a dispute communicate with each other, understand each other, and if possible help them reach agreements that satisfy everyone's needs.

Who are the Mediators?

Our community mediators have extensive training in the field of conflict resolution and the mediation process. They come from all walks of life, with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Mediators are  good listeners, they keep the discussion moving and are required to keep all information confidential. They have experience helping people communicate more effectively, even when it seems impossible for   an agreement to be reached.

Why Should you Consider Mediation?

• Mediation may limit stress, while saving you time and money.
• Mediation provides an opportunity for you to say what's important to you and to hear the other person's perspectives.
• You are in control and you know what your needs are better than any judge or jury.
• Many business disputes, family conflicts, neighborhood disputes, and one-on-one issues are most effectively resolved in mediation, especially when the people involved have an ongoing relationship.
• Mediation may help you to figure out how to get you needs and the other parties' needs met. You can't lose in mediation!

What Types of Disputes Can be Mediated?

• Neighborhood
• Family
• Parent/Teen
• Business
• Community Association
• Organizational
• Consumer
• Personal
• Landlord/Tenant
• Employment
• and many others!

Getting to Mediation

• Make contact with the CMI program staff. You may refer yourself, or work with a referral source, such as a local school or agency.
• CMI staff contact all parties and arrange for the mediation at a time convenient to all.
• Mediations are scheduled any time: weekdays, evenings, and weekends. In locations throughout the Lower Eastern Shore.
• The actual mediation takes about two hours, with additional sessions being scheduled if necessary.
• Long-term resolutions are developed in mediation. These resolutions can be put into a written agreement if the parties choose.

First Graduating Class

Click here to see pictures of the First Graduating Class