Two neighbors in a transitional housing community have been fighting over loud music, late night company and cigarette smoke. Rather than seeking each other out to “talk” about the issues, they have taken to complaining by banging on the walls, turning up the volume and yelling to “voice” their displeasure. Meanwhile, the housing management has made it clear that, if unresolved, each tenant will be removed, effectively making them homeless, again.
The neighbors met face-to-face in mediation facilitated by the Dispute Resolution Center. Both agree that they didn’t make any effort to talk things out. Through the model process, the issues were better defined allowing the neighbors to discuss their individual needs. Because they learned new information about each other, they were able to reach an agreement that satisfied both parties. They learned how to be civil, considerate community members.