Mediation Matters: About Us

Mediation Matters is a multi-faceted organization of volunteers and professionals dedicated to the management and resolution of conflict.

Most services are provided by our diverse pool of volunteer mediators who complete a minimum of 30 hours of basic mediation training, fulfill the requirements outlined in our apprenticeship process, and participate in continuing education related to mediation. Many mediators have also completed additional trainings which provide them with the skills necessary to mediate specialized cases.

Funding for our services comes from the United Way, The New York State Unified Court System, and other sources. This funding allows us to provide our services at no or low cost to participants.

We are part of the Community Dispute Resolution Centers Program that provides services throughout the state. We are also members of the New York State Dispute Resolution Association (NYSDRA), the National Association of Community Mediators, and the Association for Conflict Resolution.

Mediation Matters History Timeline

• 1979 - The Religious Society of Friends was instrumental in the training of volunteer mediators and in the creation of two pilot projects in Albany and Rensselaer Counties. The Rensselaer County program developed under the auspices of Troy Area United Ministries, while the Albany program remained independent.
• 1981 - The New York Legislature created the Community Dispute Resolution Centers Program as a three year pilot project as part of the Unified Court System.
• 1984 - Legislation is passed establishing standards for the delivery of mediation services in New York State and providing funding for the community dispute resolution centers.
• 2001 - Albany & Rensselaer County mediation programs are combined under one administration.
• 2005 - Saratoga, Warren, & Washington Counties are added to the Mediation Matters umbrella of counties.