Virginia Mediation Network
Strategic Plan Summary for 2025
Forged Together at the Strategic Planning Retreat – November 16, 2024

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Introduction: Anchored in Purpose, United in Vision

The Virginia Mediation Network (VMN) proudly represents over 200 mediators across the Commonwealth of Virginia. As the landscape of conflict resolution evolves, so too does our commitment to supporting those who lead this essential work. VMN is more than a network — it’s a community of changemakers dedicated to peacebuilding, collaboration, and service.

At our 2024 Strategic Planning Retreat, we gathered as peers, visionaries, and advocates to chart a bold and intentional path forward. This plan is not just a roadmap — it is a shared promise to each other and the public we serve. Each goal reflects our collective voice and our unwavering belief in the power of mediation to transform lives.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Short-Term Goals (0–6 Months): Laying a Stronger Foundation

In the months ahead, we are planting seeds for lasting impact — by listening deeply, growing intentionally, and ensuring that every member feels both heard and valued.

1.     Grow Membership

Our strength lies in our unity. By welcoming new members, we amplify our collective voice, expand our reach, and build a stronger, more diverse mediation community.

o   Launch a membership campaign that highlights the value of connection, professional growth, and impact.

o   Engage current members as ambassadors and allies in recruitment.

o   Engage with past members and encourage them to rejoin the ranks of VMN as valued contributors to our organization.

2.     Explore New Funding Resources

To serve more, we must secure more. Let’s boldly pursue the resources that will allow our mission to thrive.

• o   Investigate public and private grant opportunities, sponsorships, and donor engagement models.
• o   Align fundraising with our values and long-term vision.

3.     Enhance Member Benefits

When we invest in each other, we all rise. Our members deserve dynamic, accessible opportunities to learn, lead, and connect.

o   Continue quarterly Town Hall Meetings and Regional Gatherings to encourage dialogue and collaboration.

o   Offer high-quality, relevant webinars and enhance our online resource hub tailored to member needs.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Medium-Term Goals (6–18 Months): Strengthening Our Structure, Deepening Our Impact

As we move forward, our focus turns to building the systems and relationships that ensure sustainability and relevance.

1.     Evaluate IRS Tax Status

To grow wisely, we must structure wisely. The right foundation empowers us to act boldly and responsibly.

o   Conduct a comprehensive review of our tax status with guidance from financial and legal experts.

o   Ensure alignment between our designation, our fundraising goals, and our future advocacy and lobbying efforts.

2.     Broaden Outreach and Partnerships

We don’t work in silos — we build bridges. The more connected we are, the greater our reach and impact.

o   Develop strategic alliances with Regional Mediation Centers, Bar Associations, universities, and community groups.

o   Co-host events and create shared learning opportunities that elevate mediation across sectors.

3.     Document Committee Practices

Our leadership is our legacy. Let’s make it easier for future leaders to carry the torch with confidence and clarity.

o   Create standardized practice and procedure manuals for each committee.

o   Foster smoother transitions and empower new leaders with clear guidance and tools.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Long-Term Goals (18+ Months): Shaping a Legacy of Service and Sustainability

Our vision is not just about today — it’s about creating a future where VMN is an enduring force for good in Virginia.

1.     Build a Recognizable Public Presence

Let the world know who we are. Mediation is not just a profession — it’s a public good.

o   Expand public outreach through media, storytelling, and public education campaigns.

o   Become a trusted source of information and support for conflict resolution across the Commonwealth.

2.     Secure Long-Term Funding

Financial stability fuels mission stability. Long-term funding gives us the freedom to dream, grow, and serve without limits.

o   Cultivate relationships with benefactors and philanthropic institutions.

o   Develop sustainable revenue streams, including an endowment or giving circle.

3.     Sustain and Grow Membership

Our members are the heart of VMN. Their growth is our growth, and their success is our shared legacy.

o   Create mentorship programs, leadership pipelines, and recognition platforms.

o   Continuously improve member services based on feedback, trends, and evolving needs.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Conclusion: Lighting the Way Together

This strategic plan is more than a document — it is a declaration. A declaration that we believe in the power of mediation, and in the people who practice it. A declaration that together, we are stronger, and together, we are capable of transforming not only conflicts but communities.

As we move forward, let this plan be our compass — not rigid, but responsive. Not static, but steady. And always guided by the values that brought us together in the first place: respect, service, compassion, and connection.

Let’s light the way — together.