VACSB STAFF

Executive Director: Mary Ann Bergeron
Administrative Manager: Kay Springfield
Information Specialist: Jo Powell
Public Policy Manager:  Jennifer Faison
Administrative Ass't (part-time) Linda Ramsey

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The VACSB is privileged to have as its members, the forty  Community Services Boards/Behavioral Health Authorities (CSB/BHAs) in Virginia.

• The VACSB represents the CSB/BHAs in state and federal public policy matters, including state and federal funding, legislation and regulation.
• In Virginia, the VACSB works to build consensus on policy, administrative, and operational issues of CSB/BHAs and to represent those issues and solutions to the state agencies who most relate to the CSB/BHAs, to the Governor of Virginia and to the Virginia General Assembly.
• VACSB advocacy efforts are undertaken with partnership family and consumer advocacy organizations.
• The VACSB provides training and development components for CSB/BHA Board members, CSB/BHA staff and for our partners in the private sector.
• The VACSB is a resource of technical assistance and consulting for CSB/BHAs.

• Is ultimately responsive to the needs of consumers with mental disabilities and their families;
• Focuses resources on community based care for individuals with mental disabilities;
• Ameliorates and prevents disabling conditions.

• A unified Public Policy voice to the General Assembly, to DMHMRSAS, DMAS, other state agencies, local government organizations, and advocacy organizations.
• Builds relationships with legislators and advocates for positive legislation and resources for services.
• Impacts both state and federal policy and legislation through grass roots efforts and active participation with national associations, primarily NACBHDD.

Training & Development

• Sponsors conferences and workshops to assist member boards, CSB/BHAs, private providers, consumers/families and staff in staying current with cutting-edge information and technology in services delivery. Contact hours for continuing education credits are offered at VACSB training events.
• Board Members' Institute training programs provide training in the legislative and process, advocacy training, legal issues, and other issues related to the role of CSB/BHA/BHA Board members.

• Public policy forum detailing reinvestment outcomes, and themes of recovery and independence for consumers
• May conference featuring skillbuilding, innovative practices, & unique model and CSB/BHA and regional programs.
• January Legislative conference to provide knowledge and perspective for all members on current budget and legislative information and advocacy opportunities during the legislative session.
  
• IT Conferences,  in sponsorship with DMHMRSAS,  feature technical advancements, HIPAA information, current software and IT issues, and information regarding federal IT requirements.
• Emergency Services Conferences, also in sponsorship with DMHMRSAS, feature training and professional development opportunities for crisis intervention staff.