Something that's surprised me quite a bit since starting this program is the lack of participation in mediation in general - in the community, among attorneys, in the courts. In my view its a total win/win - both participants and lawyers go home happy with one less thing to worry about. But the reality is that like many mediation agencies and mediators, CMS is stuggling for clients. "The economy" is the scapegoat often used, and the stagnant economy may be part of the problem, but I believe the money is out there if you know where to look. I started my own business in January 2009 - a time when the economy was in even worse shape - and I was able to make it profitable. But it took a lot of hard work and time. And dedicated people. I'm very grateful that things turned out the way they did.
The first part of the problem, as I see it, is that people don't know about mediation. Why not public service announcements, donated ads in the Register Guard, Eugene Weekly, etc. This is an important community service that benefits everyone, and hey, we're NON-profit. In my opinion that equates to support from grants and businesses being almost a no-brainer. But you gotta be able to get in front of the right people and look them in the eye and ask for money. Without blinking. That's hard for most people to do. I'm a rarity in that I'm actually good at that so long as I believe in what I'm selling. And I believe in mediation.
I was interested to see what today's activity at CMS would be now that Peace By Piece is completed. David asked me to find out about barking dog complaints and the animal control system in the hopes that we can get a contract with Lane County Animal Services. Turns out there is LOTS of opportunity to promote CMS and mediation that hasn't been tried. So going forward it looks like my job will be to help drum up some new business for CMS.
And that's a good job for me. I like that Chip/David identified quickly where my strengths are and are using me in a capacity that allows me to use my skills. (One of the things I was dreading about being an "intern" was having to from business owner/community leader to coffee fetcher. Not that I mind fetching coffee, its just not the best use of my time). So I'm happy and relieved that CMS management "gets" me and is willing to put in position that works for both of us. Hey, it's all about the win-win, right?
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