Community Mediation Calgary Society (CMCS) offers free mediation services to help Alberta residents resolve conflict in and around the Calgary area. This article covers everything you need to know about mediation including: how it works, the types of conflicts CMCS can help resolve, when mediation isn’t a good fit, and how to access these free community mediation services.

Happy girl resolves conflict with free mediation

Conflict is an inevitable part of life, but what if there were a better way to resolve it? Many people think of conflict resolution as a long, stressful process involving expensive lawyers or escalating tensions. But that’s not always the case. In Calgary, there’s a free, simple, and effective solution: community mediation with CMCS.

Whether you’re struggling with a noisy neighbour, a disagreement over property lines, or a misunderstanding within your condo board, unresolved conflicts can take a toll on your well-being and relationships. At CMCS, we believe in restoring harmony without the stress or costs of traditional methods. Imagine walking away from a dispute with clarity, understanding, and a practical solution that works for everyone. That’s the power of mediation—and it’s helping Calgary residents every day.

professionally trained volunteer third party calgary mediators

What Is Community Mediation?

Community mediation is a process where impartial trained third-party volunteer mediators help individuals and groups resolve disputes in a collaborative and respectful environment. Unlike costly legal battles, our mediation services focus on open communication, understanding, and finding practical solutions that work for everyone involved.

At Community Mediation Calgary Society, mediation services are entirely free and tailored to address a wide range of conflicts, from disputes between neighbours to condo boardroom disagreements. By offering a safe space and skilled volunteer mediators, CMCS empowers communities to restore harmony.

free mediation for neighbours with volunteer mediator

How Does Free Mediation Work?

The mediation process with CMCS is simple, effective, and designed to guide all parties toward resolution. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Introduction

At the start of your mediation session, ground rules and expectations are set to create a safe and respectful space. Your mediators will introduce themselves and outline the goals for the session. This may take place in person or over Zoom, depending on your preferences.

2. Exploration

In this phase, mediators will help each party share their concerns and goals. By providing a neutral environment, mediators encourage open dialogue, ensuring that all voices are heard.

3. Shift

The mediators will guide participants through brainstorming solutions. By fostering creativity and collaboration, they help parties identify practical outcomes that benefit everyone.

4. Resolution

The goal of mediation is to reach an agreement that all parties can commit to. This final stage focuses on solidifying solutions and ensuring everyone understands the steps moving forward.

happy neighbour saves money with free mediation calgary city

Why Choose free Mediation Over Legal Action?

Mediation offers several advantages over traditional legal approaches:

Cost-Effective: CMCS provides free mediation services, saving you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars in legal fees.
Faster Resolution: Disputes can often be resolved in a single session, unlike legal cases that can drag on for months or years.
Collaborative Outcomes: Mediation encourages mutual understanding and collaboration, fostering stronger relationships rather than creating winners and losers.
Stress-Free Environment: With trained mediators guiding the process, participants can focus on solutions without fear of judgment or escalation.

man saves money with free mediation services

What Types of Conflicts Can CMCS Help With?

CMCS assists with a wide range of conflicts, including (but not limited to):

Neighbourhood Disputes: Property lines, fencing, pets, noise complaints, marijuana/smoking smells, shared spaces, and property damage.
Community Issues: Parking, harassment/discrimination, intimidation, and behavioural concerns.
Family and Group Conflicts: From strained family relationships to disagreements among condo boards or community groups.
Workshops and Skill-Building: Training in conflict resolution skills such as active listening, empathy, and effective communication.

When Is Mediation Not a good Fit?

While CMCS is committed to helping as many people as possible, there are certain situations where mediation may not be suitable, such as:

Divorce or separation disputes.
Conflicts already involving lawyers and court dates.
Issues related to financial debt or monetary disputes.

two women argue over neighbours fence calgary

How to Access Free Mediation in Calgary

Don’t wait for things to escalate. Conflict resolution is just a click or a call away. Are you ready to resolve your conflict and restore harmony?

Signing up for CMCS mediation services is simple:

Learn more: Read more information about our services.
Find out if you qualify: Take our 45-second anonymous quiz to see if your situation qualifies for mediation.
Call: Reach out to a CMCS Intake Coordinator at 403-269-2707.
Email us: Contact us via our contact form to find out more and sign up today.

Build a Stronger Community Today

At CMCS, we believe in the power of listening, understanding, and collaboration. By offering free mediation services, we’re helping Calgary residents build stronger, more connected communities—one resolution at a time.

Have you ever used a mediation service? What was your experience like? Share your thoughts in the comments below. And if you know someone who could benefit from this service, share this article with them!

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