Community Relations Service

The Community Relations Service (CRS) is a U.S. federal agency that helps communities resolve conflicts related to race and civil rights issues. Established by the Civil Rights Act of 1964, CRS works to improve relationships among diverse groups through mediation, training, and guidance. When tensions arise—such as protests or disputes—CRS professionals step in to facilitate discussions and find common ground, aiming to foster understanding and cooperation. Their goal is to create a more peaceful and inclusive society by addressing underlying issues and helping communities work through their differences in constructive ways.