OAFM Strategic Planning 2025-2030

By Mary-Anne Popescu | December 5, 2025

Dear Members,

We are pleased to share with you the Ontario Association for Family Mediation’s Strategic Plan for 2025–2030. This plan reflects our collective commitment to growing and strengthening the field of family mediation across Ontario—through innovation, collaboration, and care.

Together, we are shaping a future where family mediation is more accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of all families.

Why This Plan Matters

Our new Strategic Plan is more than a roadmap, it is a reflection of our shared values and vision for a more equitable and effective family justice system. It is anchored in seven key priorities:

  • Strengthening OAFM’s identity and digital presence
  • Deepening public engagement and awareness
  • Advancing research and sector partnerships
  • Supporting the next generation of mediators
  • Ensuring financial sustainability
  • Enhancing public trust in mediation
  • Maintaining high professional and regulatory standards

At the heart of all our efforts are our interwoven commitments to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Truth and Reconciliation. We are actively working to ensure that mediation is practiced in culturally safe, trauma-informed, and accessible ways, particularly for Indigenous and underserved communities.

OAFM’s Mission Statement

To provide training, accreditation and oversight to member mediators.  Since 1982, OAFM has been assisting the public to access inclusive services, promoting creative and sustainable solutions to conflicts or challenges and encouraging and empowering individuals and families, from birth to end of life through self-determination.

What’s Coming Next

Over the next five years, members can expect to see:

  • A revamped OAFM website (oafm.ca) that is mobile-friendly, easy to navigate, and inclusive in both design and content
  • A new social media and newsletter strategy to highlight our work, promote events, and amplify your voices as members
  • The launch of research initiatives on the cost-effectiveness and outcomes of mediation, including for children and vulnerable families
  • More mentorship and practicum opportunities for new mediators, and a national Mediation Moot competition
  • Expanded efforts to build partnerships with justice sector allies, post-secondary institutions, and community organizations

How You Can Be Involved

We invite you to:

  • Share your feedback on the Strategic Plan and its implementation
  • Join working groups and committees aligned with the plan’s priorities
  • Participate in research and outreach initiatives
  • Mentor a new mediator or speak at a public education event
  • Help us spread the word about the value of mediation

This is a living plan—and it grows stronger with your insight, experience, and leadership.

Let’s Move Forward Together

The Strategic Plan 2025–2030 was shaped by listening to our members, engaging with our partners, and reflecting on the needs of the families we serve. We are excited to move forward together—with purpose, integrity, and care.


With gratitude,
The OAFM Board and Executive Director

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