Mediation Services

Mediation services are easy to use - there are three basic steps:

• Step 1 - Intake: Mediation is initiated by a request to the Mediation Services (MEF) office. That request can be a simple e-mail sent, a phone call or walk-in to the office. Any current or former staff member or consultant may request a mediation for any work-related issue. Once a request is received, MEF will contact all participants to conduct an intake. The purpose of the intake is to ensure the participants' understanding of the process and to help MEF determine whether the case is appropriate for mediation.
• Step 2 - Mediation: If the case is deemed appropriate for mediation, it will be assigned to a mediator and participants will be asked to come to an initial mediation session. The participants are required to sign an Agreement to Mediate prior to the session. After the first session, any participant is free to decide whether they want to continue with the process or withdraw from it.
• Step 3 - Agreement: If the issues are settled through mediation, the mediator will draft a Mediation Agreement (MA) which records specific agreements made by all participants. By signing an MA neither participant admits fault. However, a signed MA is a binding commitment for all the participants.

Group Facilitation

involves a facilitator assisting groups in effective communication. Effective communication is necessary to build trust and collaboration and to encourage innovation. Facilitation can be used to address group conflict, as well as strategic planning and change initiatives.

Training

can be delivered to intact teams and working groups. Currently, we offer training in conflict management, mediation, negotiation, workplace relationships, and consensus building. 

Team Building

involves an active process of transitioning a group of individuals into a cohesive team, a unit organized to work together interdependently and collaboratively to accomplish a purpose. The foundation of good teamwork is a shared commitment to common objectives.