Mediation Services helps residents in Allegan, Barry, and Ottawa Counties resolve conflicts outside the court system. This reduces the court docket load. Their service area is defined and partially funded by the courts. Mediation Services is one of 16 organizations in Michigan offering mediation services. The organization has 2 full-time and 2 part-time employees, as well as 48 volunteer mediators.
The mediation is both through court referrals and individuals seeking mediation. If the mediation is court-ordered, the mediated settlement is referred to the judge to accept as a final judgment. Cases can be domestic (violence or custody), changes in visitation rights, agricultural, special education, and civil cases (like landlord/tenant), as an alternative to small claims court. There are about 8 mediations a week, run by 2 trained mediators for each session. Volunteer mediators undergo a minimum of 48 hours of training, and then they apprentice with an experienced mediator. The specialty mediation requires additional training, and all mediators receive continuing training.
Restorative practice is another area of services. Restorative practice draws affected parties into a circle with prescribed rules for talking and listening. This practice allows people to be heard. The prosecutor's office often makes referrals as a way to resolve conflicts, especially for youth. They are also useful for landlord/tenant disputes and working with families on senior care issues.
The Cookoff fundraiser is on February 21. Presented by Holland Rotary Charities in partnership with three local Rotary Clubs. Please join us as we celebrate cultures, support the community, and savor global tastes, provided by local, minority-owned restaurants. The restaurants include: Taste of Asia, UpLeaf Cafe, Rock ‘N’ Thai Street Eats and Boba, Nadine's Fish Tips Wings, Caribbean Sunrise, and Margarita's. The event will feature cultural dancers, music, a Silent Auction, children's activities, and more!
All proceeds support Rotary Youth Exchange, Leaders of the 21st Century, Heart Safe Holland, Interact clubs, and other Rotary projects.
