New WTOC+ series explores four decades of peacebuilding at the Mediation Center

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - For four decades, The Mediation Center of the Coastal Empire has helped people across the area navigate conflict, strengthen relationships and build stronger communities.

This September, WTOC+ is partnering with the nonprofit organization for a special four-part series highlighting the people, programs and mission that have helped shape the Mediation Center’s impact since its founding in 1986.

“The Mediation Center of the Coastal Empire is a center that provides mediation services to the community, but it’s beyond even that,” Executive Director Dr. Aimee Bellmore said. “We help people sit down and talk to each other when there’s conflict and find agreement.”

While the organization continues to provide court-referred mediation services, its work has expanded to help tackle neighborhood disputes, workplace conflicts, youth initiatives and community education programs.

“It began with a strong desire to resolve disputes outside of a courtroom,” Bellmore said. “With mediation, each party has a voice. It’s about listening to each other, hearing different perspectives and both parties deciding on an agreement together.”

Episode Guide

• Episode 1: The Mediation Center Learn about the organization’s history, mission and vision as it celebrates 40 years of service.
• Episode 2: Impact Programs A look at the Center’s impact across the region, including community partnerships and its Safety & Resilience Training Programs focused on emotional wellbeing, trauma-informed care and suicide prevention.
• Episode 3: Youth Programs Discover how the Center is investing in the next generation through Peer Mediation, Positive Peer Influencers and other initiatives that teach young people leadership, communication and conflict-resolution skills.
• Episode 4: Peace in the Park Get a preview of Peace in the Park, a free community celebration focused on unity, healing and connection. The event is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 27, at Daffin Park.

Looking ahead, Bellmore said she hopes to continue expanding services, including their Family Law Resource Center and youth programs that reach beyond Chatham County.

“We see ourselves as being peace builders,” Dr. Bellmore said. “We believe that peace is a skill that we can all learn to build.”

Watch the Series

The series streams on WTOC+ every Tuesday and Thursday at 3:30 p.m. throughout September. Episodes will also be available to watch on-demand following their premiere.