CSA provides creative art partnership to help Iowans thrive
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.
Rhonda is an artist within CSA’s Momentum Art Program. Rhonda has attended Momentum Art Studio for years and had her work featured in both individual and group exhibitions.
Momentum provides free art services, including art studio space, supplies, mentorship, and promotion, to artists with disabilities or mental illness within Central Iowa.
What was your life like before CSA?
I found it hard to be around other people. I was in a dark period of my life before CSA.
What did CSA do for you?
CSA provided me a safe place to create.
How did CSA help?
They made me feel like I was a part of Momentum from the moment that I walked in the door.
How has CSA changed you and/or your family?
CSA has given me the ability to grow and gain confidence. It gives me something to look forward to.
What does CSA mean to you and/or your family?
We always look forward to going to Momentum — no matter if my days are good or bad — everyone is there to help you through it. My classmates and wonderful staff work so hard to keep things going.
How do you feel about CSA? Why?
I feel excited and inspired about CSA and Momentum because each time that I come to Momentum, I feel encouraged to come up with new ways to be creative.
How would you describe CSA to other people?
Friendly, supportive, trustworthy.
Why is CSA important?
The first time I was introduced to Momentum was when my case worker from Broadlawns signed me up for day habilitation.
I was in a dark period of my life and was looking for support and answers of how to move forward. I find it hard to be around other people.
She convinced me that Momentum will provide me with the service and support that I would need. I was afraid to be there, but the minute I arrived they made Mimi, my service dog, and I feel like we had been a part of the group from the beginning.
Thanks to everyone at Momentum for helping us grow. Because I can feel and see the new growth within me.
