Celebrating 20 Years of Community, Compassion, and Care

Dear Friends, Colleagues, and Community Members,

As I look at the photograph of our dedicated team gathered together…

I’m filled with immense pride and gratitude.

Twenty years ago, Community Direct Services began with a simple yet powerful vision.

To provide personalized, compassionate care that truly empowers individuals with mental and physical disabilities to live with dignity and independence.

Two decades later, that vision has blossomed beyond anything I could have imagined.

This milestone isn’t just about longevity.

It’s about the thousands of lives we’ve had the privilege to touch, the families we’ve supported, and the community we’ve helped build together.

Our success has never been about bricks and mortar or business metrics.

It has always been about our people, both those we serve and those who serve alongside me.

To our incredible staff…

Your dedication, resilience, and heartfelt commitment to our mission humbles me daily.

You don’t just provide services.

You build relationships, foster independence, and create opportunities for growth.

You are the backbone of CDS, and this anniversary celebration belongs to each of you.

And to our clients and their families…

Thank you for inviting us into your lives and trusting us with your care.

Your courage, determination, and achievements inspire us every day.

Many of you have been with us for years.

And we’ve had the honor of witnessing your journeys, celebrating your victories, and working through challenges together.

You are not just recipients of our services.

You are the reason we exist and the driving force behind everything we do.

As we look to the future, our commitment remains unwavering.

We will continue evolving to meet the changing needs of our community.

While staying true to our core values of dignity, respect, and personalized attention.

The landscape of behavioral health and supportive care continues to transform, and we promise to remain at the forefront.

Advocating for and implementing the most effective, compassionate approaches to care.

The Hampton Roads community has embraced and supported us throughout these twenty years, and for that, we are eternally grateful.

Here’s to twenty more years of growth, impact, and meaningful connection.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Carey Lomax
CEO, Community Direct Services