SMS is a nonprofit that helps people in the community resolve disputes through mediation. Created in 1999 through funding from the Sumner County Juvenile Court, the organization began on strong footing with referrals from the justice system. SMS experienced a major crisis when referrals began to drop in 2003. Lack of referrals led to lack of grant funding and the chairman of the board position became vacant. Harnessed with a loss of funding and an inactive board, SMS began a turnaround journey. A visionary new executive director and business-savy new board chair rejuvenated the whole organization. SMS celebrated their renewed vigor with a name change that better communicated their mission.
Today, case numbers continue to rise, and the overall income of the organization has increased significantly. Funding sources have diversified and a once struggling board has been replaced with members who have experienced renewed energy and efficiency.
Our Mission:
WE ARE COMMITTED TO PROMOTING PEACE BY PROVIDING AFFORDABLE MEDIATIONS AND BY DEVELOPING THE CAPACITY OF OUR COMMUNITY TO RESPECTFULLY MANAGE AND RESOLVE CONFLICT.
Through mediation, participants express their feelings in a safe environment. They join in a respectful process in which each hears how their actions affect the other, they resolve issues and they decide on restorative action.
Mediation offers alternatives to violence, frustration, anger, retribution and fear. When people in conflict learn to use positive communication, their lives are changed.
Comments made by participants in our mediations: