Mediation Center of Dutchess County

08/29/2026

🗓️Save the date! On Monday, October 5th, MCDC is holding a *free* info session on the path to becoming a volunteer mediator. This online introduction will outline the steps, timeline, and frequently asked questions about our rigorous training process.

Please note: this is NOT an official mediation training and only offers an overview of the months-long commitment our volunteers undergo.

Ready to commit? 🔗⬇️

08/25/2026

🤔 Did you know your spare change can make a real difference? RoundUp puts every little bit to work supporting our mission! 💲
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We're excited to share an easy new way to support the Mediation Center — without changing how you spend. Sign up takes just 3 short steps, about 30 seconds!
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RoundUp is a no-cost, safe way to link your purchases to your sense of purpose. Every time you grab a coffee or fill the tank, your total is rounded up to the nearest dollar, and the spare change goes to MCDC. Imagine every errand investing in our community (just us? or does that make a checkout line a bit more bearable?)
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🤯And here’s something extra: now through 9/20, every new donor who signs up and rounds up for at least 3 months unlocks an additional $25 donation! 🥳
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Thank you for considering an everyday way to turn conflict into conversation!

08/20/2026

Remember the old saying about what happens when we assume?

We frequently see the fallout of assumptions, and appreciate this insight from New York State Agricultural Mediation Program. Clearly communicating expectations may feel uncomfortable, but can prevent more serious misunderstandings. Thanks for this tip, NYSAMP — and check out their work if you’re navigating agricultural conflict!

When expectations aren't discussed, it's easy for misunderstandings to take their place. NYSAMP mediators help New York's agricultural community uncover shared priorities and build productive conversations. Contact us to talk about your situation. No commitment, just a conversation.
nysamp.org | [email protected]

08/18/2026

Talking about ourselves gets tiring. Amplifying others’ voices? Kinda chic. 💅
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For this testimonial Tuesday, we’re sharing some recent feedback from a family court client. Though they didn’t reach a formal agreement, their experience shows what our volunteers know: that even in ‘tough moments,’ transformation is always possible.
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We’re grateful to our community for always keeping the conversation open! 🗣️

08/14/2026

Today’s an extra special throwback, as we celebrate our ED’s birthday! Leanne Lawson is a mid-century-loving hepcat whose commitment to hospitality helps set the office vibe. From mints and snacks in the lobby to advocating for the community, her care for details is unmistakable. Join the party and share your birthday wishes below! 🎉⬇️

08/10/2026

🗣️You speak. We listen. Honoring the voice and choice of our participants, we are regularly reviewing their (anonymous) feedback for growth possibilities. And while we’re always reflecting on improvements, it’s a sweet treat to see what we’re doing right! ☺️

Many thanks to the New York State Unified Court System Community Dispute Resolution Centers network for offering completely confidential surveys that guide our efforts! These insights help turn conflict ➡️ conversation.

07/31/2026

Did *ju* miss it? Before the month’s done, we wanted to be sure you saw our latest newsletter! It’s been a joyful month of programming successes… Check it out! 👇

07/28/2026

🌱 From the very beginning, MCDC’s restorative programs have focused on schools! These partnerships have proven to be fertile grounds for our vision - to create a culture that embraces conflict as an opportunity for change and growth.

With thanks for the support of New York State Education Department and space at Beacon High School, our restorative team and collaborators just led a Tier 1 training for educators! In this introductory program, Dutchess County administrators and teachers explored the basics, history, and methods of restorative work. Based on their feedback, we trust that they enjoyed participating as much as we did presenting! ☺️

07/20/2026

🥵 Though we’re here to help folks find solutions, we’ve got nothing for this summer heat.
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That said, if you’re in the midst of a heated conflict - we’ve got a few tips from our volunteer mediators for you! 😎
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And while mediators can’t solve your arguments, their ideas are sure to help keep you cool, just like 95% of our participants report. 🪭

07/16/2026

It’s been a minute since we did a throwback…⏳

But longer still, since we hosted this fabulous training for our mediators! Though times and styles may change, our volunteers’ care for the community remains evergreen. We’re grateful for every neighbor who undertakes our rigorous training in service to others. 🤩