When parcels of land pass from one generation to the next, they often carry unresolved problems that families or individuals are left to settle. By exercising open communication and creative thinking, family members can often arrive at workable consensus. FLC helps resolve land issues through family meeting processes, facilitation, and mediation. No matter how complex the issues, two goals are central to FLC: assisting family members in arriving at their best possible land use decisions, and preserving personal family heritage and harmony.

The family meeting process is designed to promote consensus and maintain momentum. A series of interviews and facilitated meetings are scheduled according to issues and personal needs, with respect for the family's privacy.

The professionally neutral facilitator/mediator is the cornerstone of FLC's success. Olivia Boyce-Abel combines the skills of both facilitator and mediator. Professional facilitators and professional mediators are akin, but differ in significant aspects. A competent facilitator will organize and focus meetings, lay ground rules, and hear each person in an orderly fashion. A facilitator listens, gives active feedback, and provides recognition to all participants while maintaining impartiality. A competent mediator has all of the facilitator's skills but is additionally trained to help family members:

• Solve problems
• Empathize with varying viewpoints
• Resolve conflict
• Reach consensus
• Achieve a fair, equitable balance
• Create harmony
• Preserve and strengthen family ties

The skill of an experienced professional mediator is often a critical factor in helping to resolve land use issues while creating and preserving family accord.