CSA empowered this Iowan to know the value of his own life
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.
Jeff Hill is an Iowan living with a mental health disability who is supported by CSA.
What was your life like before CSA?
I was so depressed that I didn’t care if I lived or died. I was lost and didn’t know where to turn to or who to even talk to. I was homeless and living in a men’s residence at the YMCA.
What did CSA do for you?
CSA helped guide me through the human services process. They gave me the knowledge I need to just survive everyday life, as in where to turn and who to ask questions.
Most of all they made me feel like I am someone, that I am a worthwhile person, and that my life is important. They have given me 110% support, and shown me what true compassion and understanding is.
How did CSA help?
CSA empowered me to make it through the struggles of my mental health. They helped me realize that just because I am disabled does not mean that I am worthless.
How has CSA changed you and/or your family?
CSA helped me unlock the “tool box” to communicate better with my family. My case manager, Jason, sat for countless hours with me working on my communication skills and listening to me.
He went above and beyond anyone has ever done for me. He communicated with my family as well to help them better understand what life is like for me and my struggles.
I never had much of a relationship with my father until Jason reminded me that my father was by my side every day for over six weeks while I was in a coma. He showed me that my father never gave up on me while I struggled through life.
What does CSA mean to you and/or your family?
CSA means everything to me. They encourage, empowered, and cheered me on over the last 15 years. Without their encouragement, I wouldn’t be able to do what I like and love to do, like play music, build and show custom show cars, and fish!
In the last year they have really shown their compassion, love, and full support as I endure life altering medical issues.
How do you feel about CSA? Why?
I can’t say enough good about CSA. The staff if top notch, my team is the most compassionate, caring, thoughtful team anyone could ever ask for.
How would you describe CSA to other people?
I describe them as a big family. If one person can’t figure something out or doesn’t know an answer, there is someone who does at CSA. They are a very educated, mindful, and caring organization.
Why is CSA important?
CSA is important to help guide those with disabilities and help people who struggles with disabilities through life.
