When it comes to employment, CSA stands by Iowan’s sides
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.
Marsha Burright works with a partnering agency primarily focused on employment. She sees firsthand how CSA helps job candidates access services and supports their overall wellbeing.
How would you describe CSA?
CSA uses guidance, advocacy, encouragement, and the occasional “reality check” to help people do as much as they can for themselves. They also support them as they make decisions about their lives, living situations, health providers and other community support partners.
Why is a partnership with CSA important?
Resources are limited for everyone and partnering with CSA allows our time and financial investment in people to be supported long-term.
When a person’s work or ability changes, CSA knows that having someone in long-term job coaching role — so they can notice the change early on — can help that person stay employed.
Often the only one listening to the person served is the CSA staff member assigned to work with that person.
The CSA staff person is uniquely positioned to be able to notice when someone is doing well and when they need more help and then actively take steps so that person served has the help needed.
What does CSA mean to the people it serves?
Hope. Help. Being Heard. Reminders for important appointments. Help getting forms filled out with the right information.
Encouragement.
What does CSA mean to the community?
There are at least two people supporting and encouraging each person served. It means someone else who knows that person, their story and how they might encourage them to take the next step.
Why is CSA’s work important?
CSA is always trying to help individuals be more independent and connected to their community. CSA has helped parents see options for their young adult children, helped young look at options available without judgment, and helped connect individuals to other services.
What would happen if CSA did not do all that it does?
Without CSA, there would be an increase in suicides, homelessness, and calls for police assistance during mental health crises.
Describe a moment when you saw the difference CSA makes.
I saw a job candidate find out they had been approved for rent assistance because they needed the document read to them. Their CSA staff helped them understand what they needed to do and what the letter meant. BIG SMILE!
If you had to describe CSA in one word, what would it be?
Support
