POUGHKEEPSIE – A volunteer mediator from Dutchess County, John Tolliver, has been recognized by the National Association for Community Mediation (NAFCM) for helping Dutchess residents with the conflicts of their lives. NAFCM is regarded as a leading resource for mediation and alternative dispute resolution centers.
For more than 12 years, Tolliver has volunteered with the Poughkeepsie-based Mediation Center of Dutchess County. Throughout that time, he has mediated cases ranging from small claims and surrogate’s court to family visitation and custody arrangements.
“The Mediation Center of Dutchess County is proud to be a resource within the community, that is resourced by the community,” said Leanne Lawson MSW, Executive Director of MCDC. “Our volunteer mediators facilitate nearly all the cases we take on each year. Each of these generous individuals undergo rigorous training before guiding people through challenging conflicts. John Tolliver is among the exemplary volunteers we have, regularly helping neighbors through their most difficult times. His skills and passion for this work inspire us all, and we are pleased that he is being honored by such an esteemed group.”
Prior to volunteering as a mediator, Mr. Tolliver served in the US Navy, and worked as an engineer and gemstone seller. He has also volunteered in the Medical Reserve Corps.
