She came to CSA for help 20 years ago. Now she’s a motivational speaker
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.
Britt was supported by CSA’s Case Management program for many years. She is a strong advocate for CSA and for the people they support.
What was your life like before CSA?
I was introduced to CSA probably 20 years ago. Life was good but hard before CSA. It is hard to have a brain injury. I started working with CSA as a young adult.
What did CSA do for you?
CSA advocated for me and pushed me to get outside of my comfort zone. They helped me continue to grow as a person. It is hard to try new things and they always supported me. They wanted what was best for me.
How did CSA help?
They were there to point out ways that I could try new things. They were supportive of me being me.
How has CSA changed you?
I grew so much as a person when I worked with CSA. I am still growing now. So, I guess I would say they changed me because now I push myself to try new things and to grow. Now I not only motivate myself, but I motivate others as a global messenger for the Special Olympics. In this role I speak to others about the impact of services and how I am a living example of how successful these services can be.
Why is CSA important?
Services are important because family will not be around forever. Services like CSA help me to be as independent as I possibly can be.
