Mediators act as facilitators, and don't give advice. Like the older couple who were disturbed by the neighbor's band practicing in the garage for long hours after their bedtime. The musicians worked at other jobs during the day so they could only practice at night. But the situation was resolved during the mediation session, when the older man offered to help his musician neighbor insulate his garage, and the two walked out, chatting like old friends about the materials they would need for the project. Seniors, who come to volunteer, work with a lifetime of experience behind them and a willingness to learn and be trained in a new field.
Most volunteers say that when they help someone, they get back more than they give.
Research has proven that volunteering brings physical and psychological benefits, and increases life expectancy. It keeps people from becoming isolated, depressed or dwelling on negative thoughts. Scientists tell us that these activities activate endorphins in the brain, giving us a sense of well being. Bill Ferris gets satisfaction from volunteering as a conflict mediator, too. He agrees with Marilyn that communication is the key.