The Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR) was created in the United States in 2001, combining three organizations: the Academy of Family Mediators (AFM), the Conflict Resolution Education Network (CREnet), and the Society for Professionals in Dispute Resolution (SPIDR). It currently has 6,000 members from diverse professional backgrounds, who specialize in the methods and procedures of ADR (alternative dispute resolution). ACR membership is open to anyone interested in ADR.

ACR has an elaborate organizational structure, from permanent committees to ad hoc working groups, all sharing the mission of ACR - to spread and standardize procedures for alternative dispute resolution. The Legislative Committee acts as a group of experts participating at various levels of the legislative process. The Standards Committee is part of the JCMSCM (Joint Committee on Model Standards of Conduct for Mediators), a joint effort of the American Arbitration Association, American Bar Association, and the Society of Professionals in Dispute Resolution. Its purpose is to set rules of procedure for mediators.

The ACR website allows users interested in learning more about ADR to find professional development opportunities, training, scholarships and internships. The site also includes information about the annual Boskey Award Competition, a catalog of publications (some available online), and an extensive collection of links to other sites about ADR methods and procedures.