ACCORD
 A Center for Dispute Resolution, Inc.
Out of Conflict Grows Resolution

HISTORY

Alternative Dispute Resolution Programs
  • 1982 - ACCORD was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency for the delivery of Alternative Dispute Resolution Programs (ADR) such as community and small claims mediation in Broome County as well as education of the community about conflict resolution alternatives.
  • 1985 - ADR service delivery was expanded to Tioga County .
  • 1992 - ADR service was expanded to include Family Mediation Services (custody and/or visitation mediation as well as child support mediation).
  • 1992 - Petition Intake Services were initiated in Broome County to assist individuals in accessing Family Court Services.
  • 2002 - Petition Intake Services were expanded to Tioga County to assist individuals in accessing Family Court Services.

Special Services

  • 1987 - Lemon Law Arbitrations began being delivered in conjunction with the Attorney General's office to provide a timely, independent, efficient and fair forum to settle disputes for consumers whose new or used vehicles turn out to be "lemons." (1996 - New York State Dispute Resolution Association (NYSDRA) became responsible for the contract; ACCORD still offers services).
  • 1996 - Department of Social Services Conciliation Program was established to assist Welfare to Work clients at risk of sanction.
  • 1998 - The Commission on Quality of Care and Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities contracted with ACCORD to provide the Surrogate Decision Making Committee program to a six county area.

VOICES FOR CHILDREN / CASA PROGRAM (Court Appointed Special Advocate)

  • 1993 - Voices for Children / CASA was established as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency to provide services to court assigned children in Broome County .
  • 1998 - Voices for Children / CASA merged with ACCORD, A Center for Dispute Resolution, Inc., and became a program within that agency.
  • 2004 - The Program was accredited by National CASA Association.
  • 2005 - The program was awarded a competitive National CASA Association grant to expand services into Tioga County as well as to expand the number of volunteers and children served in Broome County .