Advocacy

A service provided to individuals with a primary diagnosis of intellectual disability and their families to link them with needed services and resources in order to assist with community living and development of the individual's maximum potential. 

A team approach is used to ensure effective service delivery.

 Assist adults and children with mental illness and/or substance use disorders and their families with access medical, psychiatric, social, educational, vocational, financial, and other support services.  Discharge planning is provided to individuals in local hospitals, crisis stabilization centers and state facilities.

Provides education classes, support groups, consultation, resource linkage and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental illness, substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders. 

Staff coordinates the Virginia Beach Community Trust for individuals with mental illness.

Services are provided in a climate of dignity and respect in promoting the goal of   community integration of citizens with disabilities.

Funding streams include; federal, state and local dollars; Medicaid; contractual fees; and client fees.

Community based services are delivered by the City's Department of Human Services Adult & Family Services and Financial Assistance Divisions to ensure eligible persons receive financial assistance, social services and other benefits.

The Virginia Beach Community Trust is a Special Needs Trust managed by a Board of Trustees composed of five volunteers from the community. 

The Virginia Beach Community Trust has two components, The Trust for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities and The Trust for Persons with Serious Mental Illnesses. 

By setting up a Special Needs Trust, money from a family’s estate can be used to enhance the life of a disabled individual without jeopardizing entitlement benefits.