Virginia Association of Community Services Boards (VACSB)

Mission:
The Virginia Association of Community Services Boards (VACSB) is dedicated to achieving a publicly-funded system of quality public and private services in Virginia that is responsive to individuals with behavioral health and developmental disability service needs and their families. The organization focuses on community-based supports, prevention of disabling conditions, and the promotion of independence and recovery.

Who They Serve:

VACSB represents the forty Community Services Boards and Behavioral Health Authorities (CSB/BHAs) across Virginia, including those serving Louisa County and surrounding regions. The association advocates for individuals of all ages with behavioral health and developmental disability service needs, as well as their families.

Services and Programs:

• Advocacy & Public Policy: VACSB provides a unified public policy voice for CSB/BHAs, advocating to the Governor, General Assembly, and state agencies for funding, legislation, and regulation that support behavioral health and developmental disability services.
• Training & Development: The organization offers training and development for CSB/BHA board members, staff, private providers, consumers, and family members. This includes conferences, workshops, e-learning, and continuing education credits.
• Technical Assistance & Consulting: VACSB serves as a resource for technical assistance and consulting to CSB/BHAs, supporting operational and administrative improvements.
• Public Education: The association engages in public education to raise awareness about the needs and contributions of individuals with behavioral health and developmental disability service needs.
• Specialized Councils: VACSB operates councils focused on mental health, developmental services, substance use disorders, child & family services, prevention, emergency services, finance, human resources, quality leadership, and regional programs. These councils identify systemic issues, develop consistent practices, and collaborate with state agencies.
• Conferences: VACSB hosts annual conferences, including the Public Policy Conference (October), Development and Training Conference (May), and Legislative Conference (January), providing education on policy, skill-building, and advocacy opportunities.

Eligibility & Service Area:

VACSB's advocacy and support extend to all CSB/BHAs in Virginia, which collectively serve residents of Louisa County and neighboring regions. The association itself does not provide direct clinical services but supports and enhances the capacity of local CSBs/BHAs to deliver services.

Additional Information:

VACSB collaborates with family and consumer advocacy organizations, builds relationships with legislators, and participates in national associations to influence policy and resources for behavioral health and developmental disability services.