Mediation Center of Dutchess County

09/07/2026

We’re closed, but will be back tomorrow refreshed and ready to help you turn conflict into conversation.

09/05/2026

Before we head into a long weekend, we want to give a special shout out to the organizers of the Poughkeepsie City School District Clinton Elementary School block party! Our Restorative Justice Initiative team was there connecting with teachers, parents, and kids ahead of the new academic year. Many thanks to Dutchess County Government APG program for supporting our work in schools like CES!

09/03/2026

We are saddened to share that Honorable Timothy G. Pagones has passed away. Judge Pagones gave so much to Dutchess County and the City of Beacon, always showing dedication and care for our community. He believed in the power of mediation to help neighbors work through challenges, and he even sent people our way at times. MCDC honors his legacy and sends heartfelt condolences to the Pagones Family.

View Hon. Timothy G. Pagones's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/29/2026

🗓️Save the date! On Monday, October 5th, MCDC is holding a *free* info session on the path to becoming a volunteer mediator. This online introduction will outline the steps, timeline, and frequently asked questions about our rigorous training process.

Please note: this is NOT an official mediation training and only offers an overview of the months-long commitment our volunteers undergo.

Ready to commit? 🔗⬇️

08/25/2026

🤔 Did you know your spare change can make a real difference? RoundUp puts every little bit to work supporting our mission! 💲
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We're excited to share an easy new way to support the Mediation Center — without changing how you spend. Sign up takes just 3 short steps, about 30 seconds!
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RoundUp is a no-cost, safe way to link your purchases to your sense of purpose. Every time you grab a coffee or fill the tank, your total is rounded up to the nearest dollar, and the spare change goes to MCDC. Imagine every errand investing in our community (just us? or does that make a checkout line a bit more bearable?)
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🤯And here’s something extra: now through 9/20, every new donor who signs up and rounds up for at least 3 months unlocks an additional $25 donation! 🥳
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Thank you for considering an everyday way to turn conflict into conversation!

08/20/2026

Remember the old saying about what happens when we assume?

We frequently see the fallout of assumptions, and appreciate this insight from New York State Agricultural Mediation Program. Clearly communicating expectations may feel uncomfortable, but can prevent more serious misunderstandings. Thanks for this tip, NYSAMP — and check out their work if you’re navigating agricultural conflict!

When expectations aren't discussed, it's easy for misunderstandings to take their place. NYSAMP mediators help New York's agricultural community uncover shared priorities and build productive conversations. Contact us to talk about your situation. No commitment, just a conversation.
nysamp.org | [email protected]

08/18/2026

Talking about ourselves gets tiring. Amplifying others’ voices? Kinda chic. 💅
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For this testimonial Tuesday, we’re sharing some recent feedback from a family court client. Though they didn’t reach a formal agreement, their experience shows what our volunteers know: that even in ‘tough moments,’ transformation is always possible.
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We’re grateful to our community for always keeping the conversation open! 🗣️

08/14/2026

Today’s an extra special throwback, as we celebrate our ED’s birthday! Leanne Lawson is a mid-century-loving hepcat whose commitment to hospitality helps set the office vibe. From mints and snacks in the lobby to advocating for the community, her care for details is unmistakable. Join the party and share your birthday wishes below! 🎉⬇️

08/10/2026

🗣️You speak. We listen. Honoring the voice and choice of our participants, we are regularly reviewing their (anonymous) feedback for growth possibilities. And while we’re always reflecting on improvements, it’s a sweet treat to see what we’re doing right! ☺️

Many thanks to the New York State Unified Court System Community Dispute Resolution Centers network for offering completely confidential surveys that guide our efforts! These insights help turn conflict ➡️ conversation.

07/31/2026

Did *ju* miss it? Before the month’s done, we wanted to be sure you saw our latest newsletter! It’s been a joyful month of programming successes… Check it out! 👇