BUFFALO, NY (June 5, 2025) — After more than 40 years of helping individuals and communities resolve disagreements through conversation, Child and Family Services Center for Resolution and Justice is entering a new chapter. The program will now be known as the Community Mediation Center (CMC).
The updated name better reflects the program’s goal of providing accessible, empowering alternatives to conflict through mediation, conflict coaching, restorative practices and training sessions. Whether navigating a disagreement with a neighbor, co-parent, colleague, or community member, CMC creates a safe and structured space for people to be heard, understood and supported.
“Our new name, Community Mediation Center, more clearly communicates what we do and who we serve,” said Karen M. Andolina Scott, Director of CMC. “Whether referred to us by the courts or the parties come to us on their own behalf, we remain committed to helping people talk it out, find common ground and build a better future for everyone involved.
CMC services include:
- Mediation for individuals and groups navigating conflict
- Restorative practices that repair harm and rebuild trust
- Conflict coaching and communication skills development
- Training for aspiring mediators
- Consulting for workplaces, schools and organizations
CMC continues to serve courts all eight counties of Western New York through in-person and virtual services and remains part of the New York State Unified Court System’s network of Community Dispute Resolution Centers.
Learn more about the Community Mediation Center and how to get involved by visiting cfsbny.org/community-mediation-center/ or contacting the team at (716) 362-2323 or mediate@cfsbny.org.
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About Child and Family Services
Founded in 1873, Child and Family Services relies on its generations of expertise and multi-faceted programs to provide the people of its region with essential resources. C+FS is a not-for-profit organization accredited by the Council on Accreditation and a member agency of the United Way. It serves children, adults, and families in the eight counties of Western New York without regard to race, creed, national origin or economic status.
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