Below are the key areas which community mediation programs use to accomplish this goal. The mediators are members of the community they serve and reflect the diversity of that community in terms of race, ethnicity, gender, age, socio-economic status, and educational background. Mediation is accessible to everyone in the community regardless of their ability to pay. Mediation services may be offered at no cost or for a sliding fee. Mediation sessions are held in the communities in which the dispute occurred, to reinforce the message that the community can develop its own solutions and to increase accessibility.
Mediation is available to assist in resolving disputes at any stage in their development.
One goal is to mediate the dispute before it escalates into violence and before legal action has been taken. Referrals come from courts, police, community organizations, civic groups, religious institutions, government agencies, community leaders and individuals refer themselves and their friends and family members. Community mediation programs develop public awareness about mediation and conflict, often including conflict resolution training. Most community mediation programs provide the mediation training for their volunteers and for individuals interested in gaining mediation skills. The community which is being served plays a role in the governance, policy development, and outreach strategy development of the community mediation program.