M.V. Mediation now part of statewide Eviction Diversion Initiative

The Martha’s Vineyard Mediation Program (MVMP) announced in a press release that it is now a part of the Massachusetts Eviction Diversion Initiative (EDI), an array of programs that help landlords and tenants resolve conflicts.

Working with other Community Mediation Centers through the Massachusetts Office of Public Collaboration, M.V. Mediation offers free mediation and other services to support those affected by the COVID-19 crisis.

“Housing is crucial. As the winter continues, we know that landlords and tenants are negatively affected by the uncertainty of the present moment,” MVMP executive director Sara Barnes said in the release. “Our mediators can help turn tough times and difficult conversations into self-determined agreements. Housing mediation promotes more effective communication through neutral facilitation as part of the mediation process. Since 1984, we have helped many Islanders resolve conflicts, often without going to court,” Barnes continues.

The new statewide housing mediation effort is part of Gov. Charlie Baker’s EDI program, which works to help prevent homelessness by working to keep tenants stably housed and landlords from mortgage foreclosures.

“We are excited to be able to help bring these services to the Vineyard and to help our community here on the Island to have access to the various organizations and programs that are part of the Eviction Diversion Initiative,” said housing mediation program coordinator Christina Simmons in the release. “We offer services in Portuguese as well.”

Reposted from MV Times

Testimonials

“I was terrified when I came into the court. It seemed like the end of the world. Thanks to my compassionate and understanding mediators, I was able to have a productive conversation with someone I considered an adversary. I couldn’t believe we were able to work it out without going in front of a judge. Thank you MVMP.”

– Small Claims Client

“I was really not looking forward to mediation. But it turned turned out to be relatively pleasant. I really enjoyed working with the two of you. I plan to recommend mediation to others.”

– Divorce Client

“You brought us all together. It was awesome. I am so relieved. All our people felt uplifted, more united and part of a team. In particular one Board member said she felt she was taken care of with kindness and wisdom. We all know each other much better, have defined our work together and are in such better shape than we were when we started. Thank you MVMP.”

– Facilitation Client

“If you have the chance to do Conflict Coaching, DO IT! It was eye opening for me. My coach was kind, insightful and such a great listener. Most importantly, I learned so much about myself and about how I handle conflict. I now have a good, solid conflict management plan for the future.”

– Conflict Coaching Client

“It was valuable to help me handle a current conflict in my workplace. Putting a positive spin on conflict was an eye-opener for me. It gives me a structure to address problems. We had a very serious conflict at work recently so this is very important and relevant to me right now.”

– Workplace Conflict Management Services