How CSA helped this Iowan set goals so he could live independently
Community Support Advocates is celebrating 25 years of supporting individuals and families impacted by mental health or disabilities in Central Iowa. The nonprofit served 100 people during its first year in 1997 — and expects to serve more than 1,900 people this year.
A critical “first stop” organization that connects individuals and families to resources — such as employment, education, and community living — CSA’s impact has resonated throughout Polk, Jasper, Story, Dallas, and Warren counties.
To celebrate a quarter-century of service, CSA asked individuals to share their stories. Read more stories at teamcsa.org or follow #CSA25DSM on Facebook or Instagram.
Ben is a member of our Integrated Health Program and has been supported by CSA for over 5 years.
What was your life like before CSA?
My life before CSA was a disaster. I did not know where to turn. My family didn’t know where to go to get me the support I needed.
What did CSA do for you?
CSA has done many things for me, such as providing my care coordination and peer support.
How did CSA help?
CSA has helped by coming to me at my lowest points and even seeing me at my highest points. Anna and Colby have done a great job being there to support me every step of the way, because without CSA I would still be lost.
How has CSA changed you and/or your family?
CSA has changed me because without them, I would not have come this far with my goals in life, my journey, my story. It has changed me for the better. It’s made me a better person than I used to be.
What does CSA mean to you and/or your family?
CSA is an amazing organization that helped me turn my life around. It gives me the support I need so I can continue to live independently in my own home.
How do you feel about CSA? Why?
I really like working with CSA. I can honestly say they are the best I have worked with. My care coordinator and peer support do an amazing job at what they do. This is why I chose to stay with CSA.
Why is CSA important?
CSA is important to me because without them I wouldn’t have the support I do now. These services are important to me because without them I would not be successful in day-to-day life.
