Alleghany Highlands Community Services Recognized Among Virginia’s Top Three CSB’s for Young Adult Survey Collection   Covington, VA (Oct. 12, 2026) - Alleghany Highlands Community Services (AHCS) has been recognized as one of the top three Community Services Boards in Virginia for Young Adult Survey (YAS) collection in 2026, highlighting the agency’s commitment to substance use prevention and community engagement. The recognition was presented by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) and Omni Institute as part of the 2026 CSB Awards. AHCS received a “Most YAS Collected” Certificate of Recognition for its contributions to substance use prevention efforts across the Commonwealth. The achievement is especially significant for a smaller, rural Community Services Board. Through intentional outreach and community partnerships, the AHCSB Prevention Team collected 100 Young Adult Surveys, placing the agency among the top three CSBs statewide. “This recognition is a tremendous accomplishment for our Prevention Team and a reflection of the meaningful work they do throughout our community,” said Ingrid W. Barber, Executive Director. “As a smaller, rural agency, we understand the importance of building relationships and making every opportunity for engagement count. I am incredibly proud of our staff for demonstrating that the impact of our work is not defined by the size of the community we serve, but by our commitment to making a difference.” The Young Adult Survey gathers information about substance use, perceptions, risk and protective factors, and other experiences affecting young adults. The information helps communities identify emerging needs and develop effective prevention strategies, programs, and educational initiatives. April Miller, Prevention Coordinator for AHCS, emphasized the importance of hearing directly from young adults. “Each survey represents a young adult who took the time to share their experiences and perspectives,” Miller said. “That information helps us better understand the needs of our community and make informed decisions about future prevention efforts.” The achievement reflects AHCSB’s continued emphasis on data-driven prevention and community engagement throughout Alleghany County, the City of Covington, and the Town of Clifton Forge. Prevention staff collaborate with schools, community organizations, law enforcement, healthcare providers, families, youth, and other partners to address substance use and behavioral health concerns while strengthening protective factors within the community. Barber noted that the recognition also reflects the value of collaboration and the agency’s continued commitment to addressing community needs. “Achievements like this remind us that meaningful prevention work is built on strong partnerships, dedicated staff, and a willingness to listen to the people we serve,” Barber added. “We are grateful to the young adults who participated and to the community partners who supported this effort. Most importantly, we look forward to putting this information to work in ways that strengthen prevention and support healthier communities throughout the Alleghany Highlands.”

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