adult and child heads together
ABOUT

CSL OVERVIEW

Who are we? What do we do? Why are we different?

HELP TODAY
HOPE FOR TOMORROW

We provide help today for those struggling to make ends meet. Through relationships, we offer hope for tomorrow.

Group of people placing their hands together in a show of unity, with colorful sweaters visible.
Group of people placing their hands together in a show of unity, with colorful sweaters visible.

Our Mission

To partner with our neighbors by collaborating on strategies that foster community stability and individual wellbeing.

Hand watering young seedlings in soil, showing different stages of plant growth.
Hand watering young seedlings in soil, showing different stages of plant growth.

Our Vision

We envision communities where all people have voice and choice to meet their basic needs and the resources to pursue their brightest future.

MEANINGFUL AND LASTING CHANGE

With more than a century of service, Community Services League has made meaningful and lasting change in the lives of our neighbors living in Jackson County and beyond. Each year we provide integrated, life changing services to nearly 20,000 individuals, and connect thousands more to temporary assistance to get through tough economic times.

It’s a mission built on Bess Truman’s legacy of caring for neighbors in need. A mission that continues, with a passion that is as strong as ever.

2025 IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS

Infographic with various statistics about community support and aid, including pounds of trash removed, housing funds, backpacks and school supplies distributed, nights of cold shelter, Christmas gifts donated, neighbors helped, escrow savings, and homes built.
Infographic with various statistics about community support and aid, including pounds of trash removed, housing funds, backpacks and school supplies distributed, nights of cold shelter, Christmas gifts donated, neighbors helped, escrow savings, and homes built.
Summary of community support efforts from July to December 2025: 5,300 nights of housing, 5,100 meals provided, $12,000 spent on winter gear, 3,400 neighbors helped, and 30 case management services including vital documents, housing resources, and medical referrals.
Summary of community support efforts from July to December 2025: 5,300 nights of housing, 5,100 meals provided, $12,000 spent on winter gear, 3,400 neighbors helped, and 30 case management services including vital documents, housing resources, and medical referrals.
A Different Kind of Support

Coaching, Not Case Management

CSL believes people are the experts in their own lives. Our coaches don't tell someone what they should do next. They listen, ask questions, help identify strengths and work alongside each person as they build the future they want.

Traditional Approach

Case Management

Case management can be important when someone needs immediate services, resources or help navigating a complex system.

Starts with needs What problem needs to be solved right now?
Connects to resources Staff help identify programs, benefits and services.
Often staff-directed The professional may identify the next steps or recommended course of action.
Focuses on stabilization The immediate goal is often resolving today's challenge.
CSL's Coaching Approach

Coaching

Coaching goes beyond solving an immediate problem. It creates a partnership where people set their own goals, recognize their strengths and build lasting momentum.

Starts with strengths What is already working, and what strengths can we build upon?
Defines personal goals The person decides what success looks like for themselves and their family.
Participant-led Coaches ask questions, listen and help people identify their own next steps.
Builds long-term momentum Progress isn't only about today's crisis — it's about creating greater stability and opportunity over time.

From solving problems to building possibilities.

Sometimes people need immediate help, and CSL is here for those moments. But lasting change happens when people have the opportunity, support and confidence to determine what comes next. That's where coaching begins.