Community Mediation Program
FREE CONFLICT RESOLUTION
From noisy neighbors to coworker clashes, we know that life’s conflicts can be frustrating and exhausting. Dispute Resolution Institute’s (DRI)'s Community Mediation Program is here to help!
DRI provides free mediation services to community members who are dealing with a disagreement or conflict. During mediation, both sides share their perspectives and work towards a solution, with the help of the mediator. The mediator is neutral and does not make any decisions or judgements about the
Community mediation is available for a wide range of disagreements. We can work with:
-Landlord-tenant,
-Neighbor issues such as noise, trash, parking, or pets,
-Small businesses,
- Workplace issues between coworkers,
- And much more!
WHY USE MEDIATION?
Confidential: We value your privacy. All mediation communications are confidential under the Illinois Uniform Mediation Act. We will not share any information about your case without your permission.
Free and Accessible: All services offered are free of charge! We will work to meet any accessibility needs such as providing interpreters, ADA accessible spaces, and evening and weekend availability.
Voluntary: The mediator does not make decisions about your case -- you do! We are here to help guide the conversation and offer support, but it is up to both sides to decide what agreement, if any, can be reached.
Flexible: Unlike a court case or formal complaint, our process is creative. Mediated agreements work. When both sides have a role in making decisions, these agreements are often successful in the long term.
Please contact our office to request help or fill out the form on our website. Once we receive a request, staff will follow up to get more information and determine if mediation is a good fit for your issue. A mediation session will then be scheduled at a convenient time and place, and staff will help you prepare to get the most out of the mediation process.
Our programs are grant funded and supported by local community partners such as government entities, local libraries, and community organizations.
TRAINING AND EDUCATION
DRI equips community members with the tools needed to resolve their specific problems through training and educational workshops. To request a one-hour presentation about mediation and conflict skills, or to invite us to table at an event, please email info@dri-inc.org.
DRI may offer free basic mediation training in your area and you can find out more at our events page!
CHAMPAIGN COUNTY COMMUNITY MEDIATION PROGRAM
Free mediation is available for all residents of Champaign County. Mediations can take place in our Urbana office or in other locations in the county such as public libraries or other private meeting areas. We also offer mediation remotely over Zoom. Local nonprofits or governmental agencies in Champaign, Rantoul, Urbana and other cities are encouraged to contact us to refer cases.
SAINT CLAIR COUNTY Community Mediation program
Coming soon!
Carbondale Community Mediation Program
DRI’s Carbondale, Illinois office provides free mediation services to participants who live in or near Carbondale city limits, as well as mediation education and training upon request. Services are offered virtually and in person. Participants may be self referred or referred from a public agency or nonprofit.