Peer Advocacy Council (PAC)

WHAT IS THE PAC?

The Peer Advocacy Council (PAC) is comprised of a dedicated group of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Many stages of recovery and self-determination are represented among members, as are the varying levels of services our members receive from Region Ten CSB. This gives the PAC a distinct perspective and enables the group to help initiate and foster positive change within the system of care.

PAC MISSION STATEMENT

It is the mission of the Peer Advocacy Council to uphold rights and high-quality services for individuals impacted by mental health, substance use, and/or developmental disability concerns. The PAC promotes recovery-based systems, increases self-advocacy and empowerment, encourages community membership, and educates the public to reduce stigma discrimination of individuals receiving services.

HISTORY

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) Client Advisory Committee was established in the Fall of 2004. The purpose of the committee was to fulfill the CARF accreditation criteria which called for “input from persons served.” The name was later changed to Consumer Advisory Committee, and finally, to Peer Advocacy. For the first year, the focus of the group was primarily to provide input on protocols and procedures within Region Ten that involved consumers.

In 2005 the PAC expanded its involvement to include a broader range of areas that affect the lives of consumers. During this period officers were elected, a mission statement was adopted, membership doubled and the committee began to function as it does today.

Today the PAC is a recovery-oriented, peer support council that promotes empowerment and self-determination and encourages its members to become and stay involved in living a life of meaning and purpose. The PAC reviews and obtains consumer input regarding quality improvement, service satisfaction, service barriers, accessibility concerns and other relevant issues to consumers and the agency.

HOW DO I JOIN THE PAC?

Any individual who receives services from Region Ten is encouraged and welcome to become a member. General membership meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month from 12-1 pm in the conference room at 500 Old Lynchburg Road. **Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, all meetings have been put on hold until further notice.