CSA stands in the gap to shape Iowa legislation for marginalized communities
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.
Klyer Beal, the lead storyteller at MiniVan Productions, worked with Community Support Advocates last year to create a series of video testimonials illustrating CSA’s impact within the community. As part of this process, Klyer worked closely with the organization’s executive leadership, staff, members, and families served to tell the story of CSA’s impact within our community.
How would you describe CSA?
CSA is a community that makes every voice heard and showcases human value in a way that is truly indescribable.
Why is a partnership with CSA important?
CSA bridges the gap between thoughts and actions by creating meaningful opportunities for change at both the relational and legislative level.
What does CSA mean to the people it serves?CSA means membership — a place and community where you are not just tolerated, but beautifully appreciated.
What does CSA mean to the community?In a world full of marginalized communities, CSA brings hope for change.
Why is CSA’s work important?
CSA has remarkable persistence and a captivating stubbornness to defend and protect those under its wings. Lives are not only being changed, but norms, practices, and understanding at a state level are being shaped.
What would happen if CSA did not do all that it does?
Without CSA, there would be a lack of understanding, even beyond the current understanding, of human intrinsic value.
Describe a moment when you saw the difference CSA makes.
I saw CSA stand in the gap time after time for its members — a type of unwavering belief that doesn’t come along often.
If you had to describe CSA in one word, what would it be and why?
Family.
