The CCR has been toiling effectively and efficiently in Chicago for many years, yet so many are unaware of it. I read an article about it 15 or so years ago and decided I would benefit from their training. I took the course, qualified to become a volunteer mediator for them, and was involved up until 2017 when I moved out of state.
The staff is incredible - so dedicated to providing these needed services. The volunteers? Truly amazing what they provide to ensure people who cannot afford such services have them.
Thankfully I have not needed their services. I have recommended them on several occasions, however.
Oh - and I was right. Me learning mediation skills helped me in ways I never would have predicted. As a consultant to large corporations, I thought I had solid communication skills. Turned out they were average at best. But, being a mediator helped me hone truly good skills, which in turn made me much more effective with my clients.