Thomasville, October 27, 2025
News Summary
The Vashti Center has been awarded the Systems of Care Merit Award by the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. This honor reflects Vashti’s dedication to building collaborative support networks for children and families in southwest Georgia, emphasizing a commitment to holistic and trauma-informed care. With impressive statistics showcasing their impact, such as serving over 1,700 youths, the organization’s efforts continue to make a meaningful difference in the community.
Exciting News from Thomasville!
The Vashti Center has recently been awarded the Systems of Care Merit Award by the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD). This recognition is a testament to Vashti’s unwavering commitment to fostering collaborative networks of support for children, families, and communities in southwest Georgia. Truly, it’s a celebration of teamwork and care!
What is the Systems of Care Framework?
The Systems of Care framework is all about bridging connections between people, programs, and communities. The idea is to provide essential resources that promote healing, growth, and success for everyone involved. To be eligible for this award, organizations must be dedicated to fostering partnerships, adopting trauma-informed practices, and creating a meaningful impact in their communities.
Focused on Holistic Care
Jim Bue, the Interim Executive Director, emphasized how Vashti Center’s mission is holistic. This commitment includes collaborating with schools, agencies, healthcare providers, and faith communities to ensure that those needing help have access to the care they deserve. In the fiscal year 2025 alone, Vashti had an impressive reach, serving over 1,700 children, teens, families, foster caregivers, and youth-serving professionals!
Tailored Support and Partnerships
One of the standout features of Vashti’s services is their tailored, trauma-informed behavioral health support. The center has expanded its partnerships with various organizations, including:
- Georgia Department of Human Services Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS)
- Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ)
- Resilient Georgia
- Philadelphia College of Medicine (PCOM)
- Southern Regional Technical College (SRTC)
- Georgia State University
- Local school systems in six counties
- Community coalitions in nine counties
Impact on Youth
The impact of Vashti’s programs is evident in their remarkable statistics. For instance, 75% of youth in the in-school counseling program demonstrated behavioral health improvements within just a year, thanks to strong caregiver support. Moreover, 88% of the youth who utilized the residential program titled “Room, Board & Watchful Oversight (RBWO)” reported enhanced emotional and behavioral regulation during their stay.
A Legacy of Care
Vashti Center, which has been making a difference since 1903, primarily focuses on providing a safe and nurturing environment for children impacted by adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and trauma. The recognition of their efforts through this award represents not only the dedication of its staff but also the strength of their community partnerships.
Support and Community Contributions
The center encourages community involvement, inviting those who wish to contribute to their mission through volunteering, donating, or partnering up. If you’re interested in making a difference, you can reach out to the Marketing & Development Director at [email protected] or visit their website at govashti.org/give.
Generous Donations
In a lovely show of support, the Vashti Center recently received a $5,000 donation from Canfor, which will bolster its residential food bank. This program serves 20 youth (10 boys and 10 girls), providing two to three nourishing meals and snacks daily. Canfor’s contribution not only enhances the kitchen staff’s ability to prepare healthy meals but includes buckets of toys for the Vashti Clubhouse, ensuring that the kids have ample opportunities for fun and play.
New Leadership at Vashti
David Sofferin has stepped in as the Executive Director of the Vashti Center as of May 1, 2023. With previous experiences at Georgia DBHDD and the Florida Department of Children and Families, he brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. Sofferin, who holds both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Arts in Psychology, resides in Thomasville with his family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What award did the Vashti Center recently receive?
The Vashti Center was recognized by the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) with the Systems of Care Merit Award.
How many young people did Vashti serve in the fiscal year 2025?
In fiscal year 2025, Vashti served over 1,700 children, teens, families, foster caregivers, and youth-serving professionals.
What does the Vashti Center focus on?
The Vashti Center focuses on providing a safe, nurturing, trauma-informed environment for children affected by adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and trauma.
How can community members support the Vashti Center?
Community contributions to Vashti’s mission can be made through volunteering, donating, or partnering. For support, contact Audrey Copeland, Marketing & Development Director at [email protected] or visit govashti.org/give.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Award | Systems of Care Merit Award |
| Served Youth | Over 1,700 in fiscal year 2025 |
| Success Rate in Counseling | 75% achieved behavioral health improvements within a year |
| Residential Program Outcome | 88% of youth improved emotional regulation |
| Established | 1903 |
| Key Partnerships | Multiple schools and community organizations across nine counties |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Times Enterprise: Vashti Center Honored with Georgia DBHDD Systems of Care Merit Award
- Allen Funeral Home: Benjamin Wilds Obituary
- Times Enterprise: Leadership Thomas Class 41 Supports the Vashti Center
- Times Enterprise: Shine On Rescheduled for Dec 21
- Wikipedia: Youth Mental Health
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