ANNUAL REPORT 2024
STORIES FROM A YEAR OF IMPACT
DEDICATION
This annual report is dedicated to those who have struggled with behavioral health challenges, particularly those impacted by the opioid epidemic, and to the lives lost in the process. While DISC Village services are available to all individuals across our eight-county region, it is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge that not everyone who faces these challenges survives to experience the hope and healing that recovery can bring. We remember those we have lost and remain steadfast in our commitment to support those still in need. While we mourn these tragic losses, we also celebrate the vital work of DISC Village and the opportunities we provide to those seeking help. This mission continues to drive us as we expand our programs, extend our reach, and advocate for greater access to care.
LETTER FROM THE CEO
We are pleased and excited to present our Annual Report for fiscal year 2023-2024. Within these pages, you will see the impact that DISC Village has made in our community over the last year While these outcomes reflect a 12-month period, it’ s important to recognize the years of relationship-building and expertise as well as a more than 50-year commitment to the well-being of our friends and neighbors in the Big Bend area.
As always, we are proud to continue to partner with the Department of Children and Families (DCF), The Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ,) and Northwest Florida Health Network, as we strive to provide quality Child Welfare Service, Behavioral Health Care, and Criminal Justice Intervention We are also grateful to the Florida Legislature and the Office of the Governor for their ongoing commitment to funding services that truly work to keep communities safe and provide its citizens with opportunities to reach their full potential.
This year ’ s highlights included the opening of new service offices, increased collaborations with various agencies, and, for the first time in many years, the awarding of a unique project by the Florida legislature. Despite the challenges we faced—especially the impact of hurricanes on our rural communities—DISC Village and its staff consistently adapted to meet the needs of those we serve
Several of our programs experienced significant growth and an increased demand for services. Our Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) Program has reached its highest level of utilization to date and we have also developed new partnerships with local governments, which involved opioid funding. We are also proud of our expanded use of Peer-Supported Services, including hiring staff with lived experience and those who live in the communities they serve
The year concluded with the retirement of a key leader, Mike Sasnett, who had served our organization for many years. His contributions were significant, and he will surely be missed. Thankfully, his thoughtful succession planning will allow the agency to move forward smoothly.
The upcoming year promises to be just as eventful as we work to secure our accreditation for care New collaborations are underway to determine the best ways to serve our evolving communities. Additionally, our residential campus will continue to take shape as we develop a small community for individuals transitioning out of residential care.
While we anticipate many challenges, we will continue to invest in developing the leaders needed to guide the agency forward The leadership team is committed to achieving this goal, and DISC Village looks forward to successfully serving the community for many years to come.
LEADERSHIP
BoardofDirectors
ExecutiveLeadership
Jeremy Smith CFO
J. Jordan Cowart COO
John C. Wilson CEO
Jennifer Travieso Director of Operations
Katrina Glass
Dave Foster
Jhaismen Collins Director of Family Services
Pam East
Clayton Knowles
Gary Roberts Chair
Tom Derzypolski Member
Charles Dodson Member
MISSIONANDVISION
DISC Village is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of individuals, families, and their communities by addressing the challenges posed by substance use, crime, behavioral issues, and mental health disorders. We offer comprehensive services designed to foster recovery, resilience, and hope. Guided by a vision of creating a community where everyone can lead healthy, safe, and productive lives, DISC Village strives to provide compassionate support and effective solutions for those in need, empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and build brighter futures.
Play to hear how Peer Specialist, Stacey Bian, carries out DISC Village' s mission by empowering individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Play to hear Adult Drug Court Counselor, Freddie Rouse, share how he carries out DISC Village' s mission by guiding individuals toward positive change
Stacey Bian
Freddie Rouse
YEARINREVIEW
This year, DISC Village continued its mission of providing high-quality prevention, treatment, and recovery services across Northwest Florida, with a strong focus on addressing the unique needs of rural communities. Through the Rural Substance Response Project, we are addressing the critical need for substance use disorder services for uninsured and underinsured populations, including those at risk of involvement in the criminal justice system, in seven of the Big Bend’ s most fiscally constrained counties.
We also expanded operations into the rural tri-county area of Jefferson, Madison, and Taylor by opening the Madison County Human Services Center in Greenville, Florida, staffed by seven employees, many of whom are local residents. In March 2023, the new Franklin County Human Services Center opened, offering Behavioral Health services, including Outpatient Care, Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), and private drug testing, alongside community meeting space, administrative offices, and Child Welfare Services, such as Case Management and the Family Visitation Center. Both facilities prioritize hiring local, qualified professionals to support their communities.
STORIESOFIMPACT
DISC Village is proud to present this annual report, highlighting the meaningful impact of our work across the eight counties we serve. Residential Services, a core offering in all eight counties, have provided vital stability and recovery opportunities. We are proud to offer free Naloxone—a life-saving medication that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose—at 111 stations across the counties we serve. To find a Naloxone distribution site near you, visit our website or scan the QR code below and use the station locator.
This report provides a county-by-county overview of this year ’ s achievements, featuring key data points and inspiring stories of hope and progress. By expanding access to care and addressing the unique needs of each community, DISC Village has continued to make a lasting difference
The following sections of the report showcase local successes, program outcomes, and the reach of our services. These insights r fl t
Scan to vis
Frankin
Taylor Madison Jefferson Wakula Liberty
Gadsden Leon
LeonCountyImpact
In Leon County, DISC Village has been a crucial support for individuals and families facing mental health and substance use challenges. Through Leon County Felony Drug Court, Veterans Treatment Court and Juvenile Treatment Court, DISC Village has helped individuals break the cycle of addiction and repeat criminal behavior, promoting recovery and rebuilding lives. Additionally, a grant-funded campaign this year raised awareness about Medication Assisted Treatment, highlighting its role in helping people overcome substance use disorders and discover stability DISC Village Prevention Services continued to work hand-in-hand with schools to
provide early intervention for students struggling with mental health issues, preventing future crises. The Family Visitation Center supported supervised visits for children separated from their parents due to abuse or neglect. Overall, DISC Village' s work in Leon County has helped foster stronger families and a healthier community
LeonCountyData
Adult Treatment Court
of graduates did NOT re-offend within 12 months following services
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)
of MATclientsstronglyagreed oragreedthatMATstaff treatedthemwithrespect.
Prevention Services
18,922+ totalpreventionengagements.
Family Visitation
Center
of graduates did NOT re-offend within 4 years following services.
MATincreaseditsreachtoclients by25%inoneyear.
ofpreventionengagementswereforbehavior modification,self-esteem,angermanagement, anxiety,ordepression.
(FVC)
of children in care were able to visit with family through supervised visits at the Family Visitation Center.
FranklinCountyImpact
DISC Village’ s efforts in Franklin County culminated in the completion of the multi-year construction project to establish the Franklin County Human Services Center. The center officially opened in March 2023, marking a significant milestone in expanding access to Behavioral Health and Child Welfare Services for the community. This project is a great example of the DISC Village growth model. Strategically as a means of ensuring long-term service provision and demonstrating a commitment to the people of Franklin County, DISC Village purchased the land and the building located at 150 10th Street in the Medical Center block of Apalachicola, Florida. The facility is just steps away from Weems Medical, Apalachee Center, and the Florida Department of Health. This new center provides a safe and convenient hub for care, staffed with full-time counselors, case managers, and peer specialists It also offers dedicated space for Child Welfare Case Managers and Family Support Specialists to meet with and support young children in the community, making vital services more accessible than ever.
FranklinCountyData
Outpatient Services
5 dedicated roles to support community services
Jail-Based Services
$2 million property and infrastructure investment into Franklin County. services were provided inside of the Franklin County Jail 3 out of 5 days per week. or more of the inmates housed in the Franklin County Jail had access to services during ar
Franklin County Human Services Center located at 150 10th Street
Group participants complete a workbook during a group session in Franklin County Jail
Sheriff A J Smith, Franklin County
GadsdenandLibertyCountyImpact
DISC Village has made a strong impact in Gadsden and Liberty counties through prevention, treatment, and recovery services Weekly recovery groups in local jails, including gender-specific ones, help individuals break the cycle of addiction and incarceration. At Shanks Middle School, a Prevention Specialist teaches social and emotional regulation to empower healthier decision-making. Recovery Coaches with lived experience also provide peer support Overdose Prevention has been strengthened through Naloxone campaigns, with 13 stands placed in Gadsden County and 7 in Liberty County. An updated locator map on the DISC Village website, as well as a social media and TV campaign, have further raised awareness about the importance of carrying Naloxone to prevent fatal overdoses The Family Intensive Treatment (FIT) Program provides in-home, familycentered support to parents and caregivers, offering crisis intervention and supporting stability and permanency for children. This approach strengthens families and ensures access to resources even for those without transportation
GadsdenandLibertyCountyData
Prevention Services
603 total prevention engagements.
20 FREE Naloxone/Narcan stands available in Gadsden and Liberty counties.
Family Intensive Treatment (FIT)
72 total referrals.
or more engagements were for anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger management, and trauma of referrals were from rural communities with 14% residing in Gadsden and Liberty counties.
DISC Village staff and Liberty County Outreach Coordinator proudly install a free Naloxone station.
MadisonandJeffersonCountyImpact
DISC Village has made a significant impact in the rural tri-county region of Jefferson, Madison, and Taylor counties through the establishment of the Madison County Human Services Center in Greenville, Florida. This expansion addresses the unique needs of these communities by bringing essential services closer to home. The Madison County Human Services Center employs seven dedicated staff members, many of whom are deeply rooted in the area, living and working within the communities they serve. Their local connections foster trust and understanding, ensuring that the services provided are not only accessible but also tailored to the needs of the residents By expanding operations into these rural areas, DISC Village is breaking down barriers to care, strengthening the fabric of these communities, and ensuring that residents have access to the support they need. This effort demonstrates a commitment to improving the well-being of individuals and families in Madison, Jefferson, and beyond
MadisonandJeffersonCountyData
Prevention Services
7,943 total prevention engagements or more engagements were for anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger management, and trauma.
The Madison County Human Services Center in Greenville, FL
TaylorCountyImpact
Three hurricanes made landfall in Taylor County within 13 months Hurricane Idalia made landfall as a Category 3 near Keaton Beach on August 30, 2023 and Hurricane Debby made landfall on August 5, 2024. These storms left communities across Taylor, Madison, and Jefferson Counties in urgent need of support Hurricane Helene, with fierce 140 mph winds at landfall, was the third which made landfall the evening of September 26, 2024. In response, Project C.O.P.E., in partnership with the Department of Children and Families (DCF), FEMA, and the Northwest Florida Health Network, worked to establish vital connections in the impacted areas On August 7, Second Harvest of the Big Bend and DISC Village collaborated to deliver food and water supplies to the Taylor and Madison County Human Services Centers, providing enough Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) boxed meals and water to assist 150-200 families. Additional deliveries were made on August 9 to Taylor County and on August 12 to New Bethel AME Church in Monticello, ensuring access to resources for Jefferson County residents. Throughout this time, DISC Village office locations in Perry and Greenville distributed Second Harvest supplies during business hours to support residents.
Through Project C.O.P.E., DISC Village has provided 6 months of community awareness, crisis counseling, and connecting individuals with resources. Despite being personally affected by the storm, all our Taylor County staff stepped up to support their communities, ensuring that critical resources and aid reached those in need These coordinated efforts provided crucial assistance to those impacted by the storm, demonstrating the power of community partnerships in times of crisis.
TaylorCountyData
Disaster Recovery, Project C.O.P.E.
50+ community-based events in Jefferson, Madison, and Taylor counties.
500 pounds of donated food.
Taylor County Human Services team stores and distributes Hurricane relief supplies to Taylor County residents at the Taylor County Human Services Center in Perry , FL
WakullaCountyImpact
In Wakulla County, DISC Village has partnered with the Wakulla County Sheriff’ s Office (WCSO) to implement a new initiative aimed at bringing finality to ongoing situations involving law enforcement. Implemented in January 2024, the Criminal Justice Deflection Program is an integral resource to the Sheriff’ s Sustained Solution (S2) initiative to help the agency save resources by eliminating return calls to address recurring issues The program expands access for community members with mental health and substance abuse needs From January through June 2024, WCSO made 41 referrals to the Criminal Justice Deflection Program. Once a referral is received, DISC Village conducts a comprehensive assessment, and free resources are made available to address underlying behavioral health concerns
WakullaCountyData
Criminal Justice Deflection:
Taylor Liberty
Gadsden
Leon Franklin Madison
Wakulla
DISC Village Criminal Justice Deflection and Outpatient program members joined Wakulla County Sheriff' s Deputies at a community event to share information and promote available services.
FINANCIALS
The financial chart below highlights the allocation of expenses across all DISC Village programs Notably, administrative costs account for less than 10% of total expenses, underscoring our commitment to directing the majority of resources toward impactful programs and services that benefit the communities we serve. This efficient use of funds reflects our dedication to maximizing value and making a meaningful difference
STAFFRECOGNITION
At the end of the last fiscal year, DISC Village had 211 employees, 13 of whom began as interns and have since grown into full-time roles as Counselors, Screeners, Supervisors, Directors, and more. This reflects our agency ’ s strong commitment to the professional development of our staff Our dedicated staff play a crucial role in the success of DISC Village programs. Whether working in schools, Treatment Courts, or Family Services, their compassionate approach helps clients rebuild their lives by offering vital support for mental health and substance use challenges. Their unwavering dedication exemplifies DISC Village’ s mission to create lasting positive change across the region
DISC Village is proud to honor the dedicated professionals whose work has been instrumental in advancing our mission We remember the lives of Carolyn Barnes, Drewcilla “Dee Dee” Smith, and John O’Keefe, whose commitment to serving others left a lasting impact on our communities.
We also honor the exceptional contributions of team members who have dedicated 20 or more years to the agency, serving as the backbone of our success. Their leadership, dedication, and impact on our community are immeasurable, and we are deeply grateful for their service.
These distinguished individuals include:
Harry Rohr, Clinical Director – 31 years
John Bailey, Facilities Supervisor – 29 years
Mike Sasnett, Chief Financial Officer – 27 years (Retired, 2024)
Gail Keaton, SFI Administrative Assistant – 27 years
Carolyn Godbolt, Wakulla Administrative Assistant – 27 years
Terry Giles, Deflection Supervisor – 26 years
Carolyn Walker, Special Project Coordinator – 23 years
Nancy Culp, Residential Counselor - 22 years (Retired, 2024)
Lisa Sherry, Community Outreach Coordinator – 22 years
G H R d l T C d
StaffRecognition(Continued)
We also commend the leadership and expertise of our exceptional certified and licensed professionals. Together, their dedication continues to transform lives and strengthen our communities.
These certified and licensed individuals include:
Adrienne Ayers – Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Crystal Strahan – Certified Recovery Peer Specialist
Dorothy Tucker-Burney – Masters Certified Addiction Professional
Erica Maddox – Certified Recovery Peer Specialist
JeffLiangBuildingDedication
On May 17th, 2024, the DISC Village Board of Directors and staff members recognized Dr. Jeff Liang for his 35 years of service as a DISC Village board member and a lifetime commitment to working in the behavioral health field.
From left to right: CEO John Wilson, Board Chair Gary Roberts, Honoree Dr Jeff Liang, Board Member Pam East, Founder Tom Olk, at the Sister' s in Sobriety Building Dedication
CEO John C. Wilson (left) recognizes Dr. Jeff Liang(right) for his commitment and dedication as member of the DISC Village Board of Directors.
FUTUREOUTLOOK
Looking Ahead
We are excited about the future of DISC Village as we continue to expand our services, develop cutting-edge initiatives, and create innovative programs that address the evolving needs of the communities we serve. With a commitment to growth and improvement, we look forward to making an even greater impact by reaching more individuals, enhancing our support systems, and fostering lasting positive change in the years to come Here’ s a preview of three ongoing projects we ’ re involved with during the fiscal year 2024-2025.
Recovery Housing Project
With 2023-24 funding, DISC Village is expanding Residential Treatment for substance use disorders. Phase 1 includes adding beds, building recovery homes, and renovating Natural Bridge Treatment Centers in Woodville, FL. This effort improves access and infrastructure for care
Disaster Recovery Crisis Counseling
Starting February 2025, DISC Village’ s Project COPE team, in partnership with the Department of Children and Families and Northwest Florida Health Network, will strengthen connections in Jefferson, Madison, Taylor, and Wakulla communities affected by Hurricane Helene.
CORE
The Coordinated Opioid Recovery (CORE) Network connects first responders, emergency rooms, and MAT providers for opioid treatment. DISC Village implements this model in the Big Bend, ensuring seamless care Warm hand-offs link individuals to treatment within local healthcare systems.
THANKYOU
As we reflect on the past year, we are filled with gratitude for everyone who made our work at DISC Village possible To our dedicated staff, community partners, and volunteers—your tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to serving those in need are at the heart of everything we do. We also extend our sincere thanks to the organizations, donors, and funding partners whose generous support empowers us to continue providing essential prevention, treatment, and recovery services across our communities Your belief in our mission has allowed us to make a lasting impact on countless lives. Together, we have accomplished so much this year, and we are excited to carry this momentum forward as we continue to build stronger, healthier communities. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey and for your continued support of DISC Village
Contact Information:
3333 West Pensacola Street | Tallahassee, FL 32304
850 575 4388
discinfo@discvillage org
discvillage.org