10/19/2026
Friday morning, CSS lost a pioneer of the disability community. An innovator of a service delivery system that molded Community Support Systems into a compassion-centered, outcome driven, life enhancing service agency. Mike Poe was a long-time employee and former Executive Director of Community Support Systems, as well as a respected and trusted mentor and friend to many. His steady presence and guidance as a leader shaped the organization over many years, leaving a lasting impact on the people who worked alongside him and on the individuals and families served by CSS.
The impact he made on Community Support Systems and the leadership skills he fashioned in others remains visible today. Mike was a true Difference Maker. He helped establish standards of care, fostered professionalism and purpose through consistent leadership and a clear commitment to enhancing the lives of others. His passion for helping people was evident in everything he did, inspiring a culture in which staff and those served felt valued and supported. The selfless dedication to enhancing the lives of individuals served by CSS reflects the foundation of excellence he helped build and the expectation of quality he modeled for staff at every level.
Mike did not hesitate to share his leadership style – he was a servant leader. As a servant leader, Mike placed the needs of others first. He listened carefully, removed barriers, and empowered staff and individuals served to grow and succeed, leading by example rather than by title. His trusted approach strengthened both our workforce and the services themselves, fostering an environment in which quality and care were shared responsibilities. Beyond his professional contributions, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. We extend special recognition to his granddaughter, Alexis Blackwell, who continues his legacy of service by working in CSS’ Intermittent CILA program.
Mike’s influence continues in the daily work of Community Support Systems and in the lives of those he inspired. We remember him with gratitude for his friendship, his steady leadership, and a life dedicated to service and care that will continue to define the quality and commitment of the organization he helped shape.
