Introduction

Mount Rogers Community Services Board provides a wide array of community services for individuals with mental health, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders. All services include the use of person-centered planning and embrace concepts of self-determination, empowerment, and recovery as core principles in supporting individuals to achieve their highest possible level of participation in work, relationships, and all aspects of community life.

Center of Excellence

Mount Rogers Community Services Board participates in a statewide initiative sponsored by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services and the Partnership for People with Disabilities in “Becoming a Person-Centered Organization”. This initiative is a two-year program that provides monthly training to staff, from all tiers of the agency, in order to become more person centered in day-to-day practices and supports individuals receiving services to have lives of their own choosing as a part of their community. Although learning is ongoing, we find that utilizing person-centered practices helps facilitate those we support to develop and maintain better relationships, enjoy their work, look forward to participation in community activities, experience fewer crises, and regularly express joy and happiness with their lives.

Completing this two-year program recognizes Mount Rogers Community Services Board as a Center of Excellence in providing services that are truly person-centered.