Can you believe the Community Mediation Center of Southeastern Virginia (CMC) has been educating and providing conflict resolution services to families, youth, individuals and the community for the past 19 years?

Last year brought new and unique opportunities for the CMC and, in many ways, it was one of the best years ever. New partnerships were formed, youth peer mediation programs were created and expanded, the CMC partnered in gang prevention and intervention programs and diversified both our training curriculum and customer base. We communicated our message via the radio, internet, blogs, television, newsletters and in person. Our staff delivered presentations and facilitated discussions to city groups, the business community, nonprofit organizations, professional and civic groups, families, courts, schools and colleges and universities. The community at large benefited from these activities. We continue to receive positive feedback. Over 90% of people who used mediation alone reported they would use it again and 85% of all mediations reached a agreement.

It is said that “one great, strong, unselfish soul in every community could redeem the world”. In our community, we are strengthened by many strong souls—our 13 talented staff members, over 60 dedicated volunteers and 18 motivated board members. This devoted group provides conflict resolution training and services, mediation, facilitation and arbitration services to virtually every part of our community. Last summer alone, this team trained over 300 students in conflict resolution skills.

In 2009, the CMC faces the same economic challenges as the nation. How do we do more... with potentially less resources? In their usual optimistic and creative style, the CMC staff views this as an opportunity to continuously improve the delivery of our products and services. We commit to increase our partnerships with other organizations, to offer new and expanded programs and to innovatively diversify our services while maintaining affordable pricing so that we can provide our services to all who desire them. We will continue our focus on youth...helping them resolve their own conflicts so they will not reach negative outcomes. We will help families live together peacefully and co-parent their children in a positive manner. We will increase conflict resolution training opportunities to our community. We are ready to resolve, reduce and prevent conflict.

I continue to applaud and admire the true commitment of the dedicated staff, volunteers, supporters, and our Board of Directors. Our entire community benefits when we all learn how to resolve conflict.

Kim Humphrey