Hours: Monday – Thursday, 9:00am – 5:00pm | Phone: 541-770-2468

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

What is Resolve?

Resolve is a nonprofit community dispute resolution center that helps individuals, families, businesses, and organizations navigate conflict through mediation, facilitation, and training. Our goal is to create stronger, healthier communities by transforming conflict into opportunities for understanding and growth.

What types of conflicts do you help with?

We assist with a variety of disputes, including:

  • Workplace and business conflicts
  • Family and interpersonal disputes, not including custody and divorce agreements
  • Landlord-tenant and housing issues
  • Neighborhood and community conflicts
  • Organizational and team challenges

If you’re unsure whether your situation is a good fit for our services, reach out—we’re happy to help.

Is Resolve a legal service?

No, Resolve does not provide legal advice or representation. However, mediation and facilitation can often help people reach agreements without going to court. We focus on collaborative problem-solving, not legal battles.

Restorative Justice (RJ)

What is Restorative Justice?

Restorative Justice (RJ) is a community-based approach to repairing harm by bringing together those affected—such as the person who caused harm, the person harmed, and community members—in a structured, facilitated conversation. The goal is to foster understanding, accountability, and healing.

How is RJ different from traditional justice?

Unlike traditional justice systems that focus on punishment, RJ focuses on:

  • Acknowledging the impact of harm on individuals and the community
  • Encouraging accountability from those responsible for harm
  • Creating a plan for healing and making things right

Who can participate in an RJ process?

RJ can be used in many settings, including:

  • Schools – Helping students resolve conflicts, repair harm, and build stronger relationships
  • Workplaces & organizations – Addressing conflict and harm in a way that promotes accountability and reconciliation
  • Criminal justice settings – Providing an alternative or complementary process to court proceedings

What does a Restorative Justice process look like?

Every RJ process is unique, but it generally includes:

  1. Preparation meetings – Individual conversations to ensure all participants feel safe and ready
  2. Restorative dialogue or circle – A structured, facilitated conversation where participants share their experiences and explore solutions
  3. Action steps for accountability and repair – A plan for moving forward in a meaningful way

How can I learn more or get involved?

Resolve offers Restorative Justice facilitation, training, and community programs to help individuals and organizations integrate RJ principles into their work.

Mediation & Facilitation

What is mediation?

Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process where a neutral mediator helps people in conflict have a structured conversation, explore solutions, and reach agreements that work for everyone involved.

What is facilitation?

Facilitation is a guided conversation designed to help groups and organizations navigate complex discussions, improve communication, and reach shared goals. Unlike mediation, facilitation is not focused on resolving a dispute but rather improving collaboration and decision-making.

What’s the difference between mediation and facilitation?

Mediation is typically for two or more individuals in conflict who want to find a resolution.

Facilitation is for groups or organizations that need help navigating challenging discussions, strategic planning, or team dynamics.

Getting Started

How do I start the mediation process?

We begin with a free, confidential 1-hour intake session, where we learn about your situation, answer your questions, and determine the best approach. Contact us to schedule an intake.

How do I refer someone to mediation?

If you’re a case manager, social service provider, or community partner, we welcome referrals. Visit our Referral Information page to learn more about the process.

Do both parties have to agree to mediation?

Yes, mediation is voluntary. We can reach out to the other party on your behalf to explain the process and invite them to participate.

Where do mediations take place?

We offer in-person, virtual, and hybrid mediation options to meet your needs.

Confidentiality & Costs

Is mediation confidential?

Yes! Mediation is private and confidential. Nothing shared in mediation can be used in court, and our mediators follow strict ethical guidelines.

Are Resolve’s mediators certified?

Yes! Our mediators are certified in civil mediation in Oregon and trained to facilitate fair, constructive conversations.

How much does mediation cost?

  • Free 1-hour intake session to explore your needs
  • Sliding-scale fees based on income and organization size
  • 20% discount for nonprofit organizations

We are committed to making our services accessible — contact us to discuss pricing options.

Additional Support

What if I’m nervous about mediation?

That’s completely normal! Mediation is designed to be a safe, respectful process where all voices are heard. Our mediators will guide the conversation and ensure fairness throughout.

Can mediation still help if we don’t reach an agreement?

Absolutely. Even if a formal agreement isn’t reached, mediation often improves communication, clarifies concerns, and helps people find common ground.

How can I support Resolve’s mission?

We welcome community support! You can:

  • Volunteer as a mediator or event support
  • Attend a training or workshop
  • Make a donation to support accessible conflict resolution services

Learn more on our Join Us page

Still have questions?

We’re here to help.