Becoming A Mediator

BECOME A MEDIATOR—And Make A Difference For Families

The positive experiences of the families participating in YAI Family Mediation depend upon the help of our volunteer mediators. Since the Family Mediation program began 16 years ago, over 500 people have volunteered their time and energy to help families find new ways to talk and listen to each other. Through this important work, these volunteers demonstrate their deep commitment to children and families in our state. They are the heart of what we do.

"Mediation is interesting and challenging," volunteer mediator Douw Meyers explains. "It is an ongoing process to listen to oneself while listening to what is being said and unsaid; pay attention to the timing and rhythm of each family member; and always be willing to let the families lead the process."

Family Mediation takes place at a convenient time and place for families. It is a process that is based on a profound respect for the parties' autonomy and ability to better understand themselves and the other parties involved. The program empowers and validates the family's ability to manage itself and offers them an opportunity to resolve their issues themselves. Join us in making a difference for Maine's families!

Mediator Responsibilities

• Help family members better understand themselves and their situation.
• Assist families in finding new ways to talk and listen with each other.
• Help family members explore options.
• Make sure everyone is heard and that everyone is participating voluntarily.
• Make sure all parties agree on any decisions made during mediation.

Requirements for Volunteer Mediators

To become a volunteer mediator, you must be invited. The first steps toward becoming a volunteer mediator are:

1. Attend a 40 hour basic Mediation Training
2. Attend a Youth Alternatives Ingraham Orientation
3. Observe at least one family mediation session
4. Co-Mediate with an experienced mediator for at least two sessions. After each session, the case manager will provide feedback and answer any questions you may have. The case manager, director and volunteer decide whether the volunteer needs to repeat the first two steps or will be invited on to the roster.
   

• Participate in two family mediation study groups (through Youth Alternatives Ingraham, MADRP (Maine Association for Dispute Resolution Professionals), ACR (Association for Conflict Resolution) or other mediation organizations.
• Adhere to the principles and ethics of mediation.
• Mediate six sessions during a calendar year.
• Complete program and self-reviews every other year.

Program Staff

The Program Director is responsible for program budget, programming and supervision of staff and mediators. The Program Director also works with families in a case management or mediation capacity when needed. Any questions, comments or suggestions should be directed to the Program Director.

The Case Manager, a support and resource person for both the mediators and the family members is responsible for the scheduling and coordination of mediations. When the Case Manager first contacts the family they explain how the program works, and confirm that all participants voluntarily agree to participate in the mediation process. After scheduling the mediation, the Case Manager sends out a call for mediators. The evening before the mediation, the Case Manager will meet with the Volunteer Mediator. The Case Manager can either co-mediate or observe the mediation and will provide feedback and debriefing to the mediators. The Case Manager provides any referral information families might need, including reports to DHHS. During and after the mediation is completed, the Case Manager does follow-up work with the family, such as referrals to relevant resources.

Student interns are accepted into the Family Mediation program with the understanding that they have had some training or experience with mediation. The program offers students an opportunity to begin practicing their learned skills. An internship in the Family Mediation program includes the following responsibilities: coordination of mediations, work with the mediators, referral services and preparation and follow up work with families. Students come to the program with varied educational, life and work experiences.

Interested? Send an e-mail to our Program Director, or call 207 874 1175 and ask for YAI Family Mediation.