Our Story
CMS was founded in 1980 to give Queens residents an alternative to court for resolving disputes. What started as a single mediation program has grown into six divisions serving thousands of families, young people, and community members each year.
We partner with more than 100 community-based organizations, public schools, NYCHA, ACS, DYCD, and New York City courts. Our headquarters is in Jamaica, with sites in Queensbridge, Elmhurst/Corona, Far Rockaway, and Brooklyn.
What We Believe
Conflict is part of life. How people navigate it shapes everything—families, schools, housing, justice outcomes. We teach practical skills and work alongside people, not for them.
Our Values
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
“I wish I had known about mediation earlier. It is so much better than an impartial hearing.” — Early Intervention Mediation Participant
“I would not have gotten this far in life if it wasn’t for CMS.” — Dayquan, 20
“The program helped us communicate better and understand each other’s needs.” — Parent, Family Empowerment Program
“CMS helped me get my life together, the staff members will give you that push and won’t give up on you.” — Ramon, 23
“I realized that I wasn’t the only one going through this. I saw other parents finding ways to help their children, and want to do the same for my kids.” — A.C.T. Program Participant
“I wish I had known about mediation earlier. It is so much better than an impartial hearing.”
“I would not have gotten this far in life if it wasn’t for CMS.”
“The program helped us communicate better and understand each other’s needs.”
“CMS helped me get my life together, the staff members will give you that push and won’t give up on you.”
“I realized that I wasn’t the only one going through this. I saw other parents finding ways to help their children, and want to do the same for my kids.”
Our goal is to support and empower every community member by promoting practical problem-solving approaches. We believe fostering self-determination and positive decision-making through programs to achieve this mission is essential. We encourage organizations and institutions to implement innovative solutions that respond directly to the unique needs of the individuals they serve. With this approach, we are confident that we can fully empower every community member.
