A common area of conflict for non-profits is between the Executive Director and a board member.  Occasionally, the conflict is between the Chairperson of the Board and the Executive Director.  The conflict can lead to the termination of a Executive Director, thus necessitating the search for a new one.  The search is often time consuming for board members.  There is great cost to the organization of operating without an Executive Director.  The cost is multiplied when considering the adjustment time of a new director to the board, staff, and donor base.  Mediation can help resolve disputes at this level often retaining the Executive Director and helping the organization push forward toward vision and goals.

The staff of most non=profits is fairly small.  Many non-profits seek to create a “family” feel at work.  Usually everyone is overworked and underpaid on non-profit staffs.  People work for a non-profit at a lessor salary because they believe in the mission and vision of the organization.  When conflict erupts, it can quickly affect the entire moral and relationships at the office.  Since many non-profits cannot afford a dedicated staff person in HR, they can struggle to resolve conflict, gossip and triangulation.  Frequent staff resignations handicap an organization from moving forward.  If the conflict is not resolved, staff problems will persist. Mediation is a cost-effective process to resolve the conflict, assist with staff training, and consult with senior leaders on staffing issues.

When an organization is mired in conflict, there is little time or energy to focus on the real mission and vision.  Genesis Mediation offers discounted services to non-profits allowing them affordable mediation to assist in resolving conflict.  Dr. Kinnison has either led, started, or served on boards of non-profits for over 30 years.  He can help create peace in your organization.