The Board of Directors for both the Center for Human Services (CHS) and Chariton Valley Association (CVA) have voted to approve the merger of CVA with CHS. The merger will be an extension of CHS efforts, and the top priority remains for this process to be a seamless transition for all service recipients and their families.
CHS will serve as the parent company with CVA retaining its name and service operations as historically offered. Both organizations desire a greater benefit for service recipients while increasing operational efficiencies from the union. The merger between the two companies is set to take effect between January 1-15, 2023. This important decision by each organization’s Board of Directors is a culmination of months of discussion and negotiation to ensure that this merger is the best fit for both organizations, the people they serve, employees, and contractors. CHS CEO Dave Kramer stated, “We are confident that the future is bright for our combined organization with even greater opportunities to grow and share our mission.”
CVA Board President Marilyn Romine added, “After a thorough evaluation of potential merger partners for CVA, partnering with Center for Human Services was the obvious choice. The opportunities for growth and expansion of services are tremendous.”
The missions of both CHS and CVA closely align by striving to make an impact in the lives of people with intellectual, developmental, and other disabilities. CHS provides services to nearly 10,000 income-eligible children, families, and adults in 47 counties across the state of Missouri through Missouri First Steps, Early Head Start, Head Start, Aquatics, Behavioral Therapy, Employment Services, Residential Services, Service Coordination, and Community Support Services.
CVA serves over 100 people in the Kirksville area and beyond, providing various residential services including Independent Supported Living, Host Home, Independent Living Skills Development, and Employment Services. Like Center for Human Services, CVA focuses on person-centered supports that move individuals toward independence.