Community Service Board of Middle Georgia

06/01/2026

Is your organization visible in an AI-driven world?

Artificial intelligence is changing how people search for healthcare, mental health services, and community resources. Instead of scrolling through pages of search results, many consumers are now asking AI tools direct questions and receiving instant recommendations.

In our latest blog, Has AI Made You Invisible?, we explore how AI-powered search tools are transforming digital visibility and what organizations can do to ensure their services, expertise, and resources remain accessible to the people who need them most.

Learn why digital visibility matters, how AI is reshaping online searches, and what behavioral health organizations should consider as technology continues to evolve.

Read the full blog today at CSBMG.com.
https://csbmg.com/has-ai-made-you-invisible/?post_type=blog_post

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming how consumers search for healthcare information, behavioral health services, and community resources.

06/01/2026

Recovery is about more than simply stopping substance use—it is about rebuilding a healthier, more meaningful life.

In our latest blog, The Difference Between Sobriety and Recovery: Understanding the Journey of Healing, we explore how recovery involves emotional, mental, physical, and social healing while strengthening relationships, developing healthy coping skills, and finding hope through connection and support.

Whether you are on your own recovery journey, supporting a loved one, or simply looking to learn more, this article highlights the importance of recovery-focused care and the resources available to help individuals and families thrive.

Read the full blog today at CSBMG.com.
https://csbmg.com/the-difference-between-sobriety-and-recovery-understanding-the-journey-of-healing/?post_type=blog_post

For many individuals experiencing substance use disorders, sobriety is often viewed as the ultimate goal.

05/29/2026

The Co-Responder Advisory Council convened on May 28, 2026, bringing together behavioral health professionals, law enforcement partners, peer support specialists, and community stakeholders to discuss ongoing initiatives, program updates, and opportunities to strengthen behavioral health crisis response services across the region.

Lisa Montford welcomed attendees and facilitated introductions, providing an opportunity for participants to connect and share updates from their respective organizations.

Erica Stokes introduced the meeting's guest speakers. April Biagioni of Inside Consulting presented a questionnaire designed to gather feedback and identify priorities related to behavioral health crisis response, diversion efforts, and community collaboration. She also provided an overview of the state's health information exchange network and discussed how increased connectivity among healthcare providers, behavioral health organizations, first responders, and community partners can improve care coordination, streamline information sharing, and support better outcomes for individuals receiving behavioral health and medical services. Additionally, April shared examples of diversion tools and protocols being utilized in other communities, including diversion checklists and action prompts that help law enforcement and EMS personnel assess safety, identify behavioral health and substance use needs, and connect individuals with peer support and treatment resources when appropriate. Participants learned about opportunities to enhance communication across systems, strengthen diversion pathways, and improve access to critical health information that supports timely and coordinated care.
Jesi Squires of the Community Service Board of Middle Georgia (CSBMG) shared her personal testimony of her journey through addiction, then overcoming it and becoming a productive member of society with the help of Peer Support Services.

Stephanie Kucera provided updates on the Opioid Reduction Initiative. The harm reduction funds from the Opioid Reduction Initiative project were exhausted with the stop the bleed kits donated to Laurens County Sheriff’s Office. New grants that have been applied for include:

• Georgia Opioid Crisis Abatement Trust Settlement Funds (GOCAT) for 1.3 Million which will be used to sustain Jail In-Reach program and RISE UP (Eastman Outpatient Clinic)
• Georgia Opioid Crisis Abatement Trust Settlement Funds (GOCAT 3) for Waynesboro, Georgia location
• Additional grant applied in partnership with the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office with intention to provide mobile telehealth model to dispatch vehicles in attempt to place individual’s into service. Model will be used as a last result and is not intended to replace Mental Health or Mobile Crisis services and interventions
During the Jail In-Reach Referrals discussion, Stephanie Kucera and Callie Lee shared updates on peer services currently being provided within local jails. The discussion focused on efforts to connect incarcerated individuals with recovery support, behavioral health resources, and community-based services prior to reentry. Jail In-Reach is currently active in eight counties and in progress of entry in the counties of Jefferson, Johnson, and Treutlen counties. Participants discussed referral processes, engagement strategies, and opportunities to strengthen continuity of care following release.

Tina Clements stated there are no Co-Responder Pilot Sites referrals reported since the last meeting.

The next meeting will be held on Thursday, August 27th at 10AM in the Dubin Outpatient Clinic Library or via Zoom

05/29/2026

As healthcare continues moving toward whole-person care, digital tools are transforming how providers connect individuals with the services they need. From faster referrals and improved care coordination to reduced emergency department visits and lower healthcare costs, technology is helping create new pathways to care.

In our latest blog, For Integration Success, Digital Anyone?, we explore how digital integration is reshaping behavioral health services and what these innovations could mean for rural and underserved communities across Middle Georgia.

Discover how technology, coordination, and compassionate care can work together to improve outcomes for individuals and families.

📖 Read the full blog at: https://csbmg.com/for-integration-success-digital-anyone/?post_type=blog_post

As healthcare systems continue evolving toward whole person care, behavioral health organizations are being challenged to rethink how integrated care is delivered.

05/29/2026

Did you know that many people living with hepatitis C may not experience symptoms for years? Early testing, diagnosis, and treatment can make a life-changing difference.

In recognition of National Hepatitis Awareness Month, the Community Service Board of Middle Georgia is highlighting the importance of hepatitis awareness, prevention, and access to care. Learn why early detection matters, how treatment options have improved, and where individuals can find support and resources.

Read the full blog on our website:
https://csbmg.com/national-hepatitis-awareness-month-promoting-education-testing-and-hope-through-early-intervention/?post_type=blog_post
🌐 CSBMG.com

Each May, communities across the nation observe National Hepatitis Awareness Month to raise awareness about viral hepatitis, encourage prevention efforts, and promote access to testing and treatment…

05/28/2026

Mental health support for mothers matters — and no one should feel alone during pregnancy or postpartum recovery. 💚

Our latest blog from the Community Service Board of Middle Georgia highlights the importance of maternal mental health awareness, national resources available for mothers and families, and how communities across Georgia can help reduce stigma while encouraging support and early intervention.

Learn more about:
✔️ Maternal mental health challenges
✔️ The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
✔️ New resources like Moms.gov
✔️ Support systems available for Georgia families
✔️ Why awareness and early intervention matter

Read the full blog today at 🌐 csbmg.com.

https://csbmg.com/maternal-mental-health-awareness-supporting-georgia-mothers-families/?post_type=blog_post

May is recognized nationally as Mental Health Awareness Month, serving as an important opportunity to increase awareness about mental health challenges, reduce stigma, and connect individuals and…

05/26/2026

Blood Drive on May 29th at Building 2

05/26/2026

As many of you already know, Eric Scott was selected by the John Williams Scholarship Foundation Board as the 2026 John Williams Scholarship recipient. Sponsored by the Carl and Mavis Williams Family and Henry Memorial Presbyterian Church, the John Williams Scholarship honors CSB of Middle Georgia staff members dedicated to advancing their behavioral health education in service to others. Eric’s selection reflects not only his outstanding academic performance, but also his character, leadership, and unwavering commitment to service. Eric demonstrates exceptional integrity, resilience, and a genuine dedication to helping others succeed. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling while maintaining a 4.0 GPA and balancing professional responsibilities, leadership responsibilities, and family life.

Eric currently serves as a Wraparound Supervisor, supporting a team of care coordinators who work closely with some of the most vulnerable children and families throughout the communities we serve. These children and youth are at risk of being placed outside their homes due to complex behavioral health and environmental challenges. Through compassionate leadership and guidance, Eric helps ensure that his team remains focused, responsive, and aligned with best practices in family-centered care. At the heart of this work is a commitment to preserving families whenever safely possible, ensuring that children can remain in their homes surrounded by familiar support systems while receiving the care and structure they need to thrive.

Eric is widely recognized for leading by example—mentoring peers, fostering teamwork, and continuously seeking ways to improve both himself and the services provided to the community. His leadership reflects both professional excellence and a deep sense of compassion for the families and youth he serves. His passion for expanding treatment access, particularly for underserved youth, reflects the mission and values this scholarship represents.

Eric was recognized during the Scholarship Ceremony held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at the 11:00 a.m. service at Henry Memorial Presbyterian Church in Dublin, Georgia. Mrs. Kathy Williams and Mrs. Jan Williams Jones, representatives of the Williams family, were also on hand for the ceremony. Congratulations, Eric, on this well-deserved recognition! CSBMG is incredibly proud of your accomplishments and the continued impact you are making in the lives of children, families, and communities served throughout Middle Georgia.

Picture From left to right: Kathy Williams, Charles Lang, Jan Williams Jones, Eric Scott, Denise Forbes, Reverend Dr. Catherine Belles, Marnie Braswell, Lisa Montford

05/26/2026

CSB of Middle Georgia leadership and Board Chair, Judi Davis, were pleased to host Commissioner Kevin Tanner and members of his team in Dublin today. The meeting highlighted new projects being undertaken, including progress on the Behavioral Health Crisis Unit, as well as discussion around service provision, transportation, integrated healthcare, and peer supports. Always enjoy getting to highlight this important work with members of our DBHDD leadership team. We appreciate their continued support.

Left to Right: Denise Forbes, Jenny DeLoach, Region 5 Regional Director, Lisa Montford, DBHDD Commissioner Kevin Tanner, Judi Davis, CSBMG Board Chair, Jennifer Dunn, Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Field Operations South, and Chelsee Nabritt, Board and Special Project Manager for DBHDD.

05/22/2026

Community Service Board of Middle Georgia (CSBMG) is proud to recognize the outstanding efforts of Michelle Herndon, Jason Soles, and the entire transportation team following another successful vehicle inspection. The most recent inspection occurred with a new company that our Georgia CSBs are working with … Verida.

Thanks to weeks of preparation, attention to detail, and teamwork — including working through the heat during inspection day — the team once again maintained CSBMG’s perfect inspection score streak. This reflects their dedication and continued commitment to safety, reliability, and quality service for the individuals and communities served by CSB of Middle Georgia.

This accomplishment highlights the hard work that happens behind the scenes each day to ensure CSBMG vehicles remain inspection-ready and dependable for transportation services throughout the region, regardless of which company or governmental entity handles the inspections.

Please join us in congratulating Michelle, Jason, and the entire team on another job well done! 👏🚐💚