Iowa attorney: The community is better with CSA in it
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.
Chris Nuss, a former CSA board member and local attorney, has dedicated himself to helping oversee and implement CSA’s mission, vision, and values.
Why do you do what you do?
In my legal practice, I’ve seen valuable nonprofits struggle because they lack expertise or proper skill sets in certain areas, so I wanted to use my experiences to give back to the community in some way.
How would you describe CSA?
CSA is filled with passionate, determined, and caring people meeting those in need wherever they are at in their lives to help them improve.
Describe a moment when you saw the difference CSA makes. What happened?
In one of the rebranding meetings involving many CSA employees and volunteers, the discussion that took place about the meaning and effect of certain words on those who CSA helps was eye-opening. It displayed the dedication and compassion CSA workers have and the “why” they do what they do with real-life examples.
What keeps you motivated in your work/volunteerism with CSA?
I am motivated by seeing how others are so willing and unselfish to help, and hearing “success stories” because of that behavior.
What does CSA mean to the people they support? What does it mean to you?
To me, it’s a place that is reliable, accountable to others, and where you can always turn to for help.
Why is CSA’s work important?
CSA allows people to live a better life and feel more worthy about themselves, thereby improving the community.
What would happen if CSA did not do all that it does?
We wouldn’t get to experience wonderful art!
If you had to describe CSA in one word, what would it be and why?
Passionate.
