Chimes Expands Services for People with Disabilities and Mental Health Challenges through Acquisition of Two Virginia-Based Organizations

BALTIMORE, MD – Chimes, one of the mid-Atlantic’s leading and largest providers of services and support for people with disabilities and mental health challenges, recently announced the acquisition of Career Support Systems, Inc. (CSS) and Family Focus, LLC, significantly expanding its presence in Virginia. 

CSS, founded in 1993 by Joanne Ellis and Lance Elwood, brings more than 30 years of supported employment expertise in central and northern Virginia. Lance Elwood will continue to lead CSS as part of Chimes, while Joanne Ellis transitions into retirement. 

“Helping people with disabilities and other challenges explore and succeed in the world of work has been a tremendously meaningful mission for CSS,” said Joanne Ellis. “Both Lance and I feel strongly that Chimes is the perfect organization for CSS to join as we transition into a new phase for our company while keeping the focus on the people we support.” 

Family Focus, founded in 2001 by Patricia Harris, serves nearly 1,500 people throughout Henrico County and the Richmond metro area. With more than 30 employees, Family Focus provides community-based programs including case coordination, parent support, home-based services, mentoring, mental health skill building, and supervised visitation. Harris plans to retire after a decades-long career in mental health services. 

“For decades, our team has proudly worked to meet the diverse and evolving mental health needs of our community in Richmond and beyond,” said Patricia Harris. “Joining forces with a large, stable, multi-state provider like Chimes ensures our team will continue to be a resource for people who need us for decades to come.” 

“We are thrilled to welcome both teams into the Chimes Family of Services,” said Steve DaRe, President and CEO of Chimes. “We know how meaningful employment opportunities and mental health support can be for the vulnerable populations we serve. These acquisitions allow us to expand our geographic reach and build on the combined 55-plus years of excellence these organizations bring to Virginia.” 

Founded in 1947 and based in Baltimore, Chimes’ 3,500 team members serve more than 26,000 people throughout the region. In addition to employment services, Chimes operates a special education school, day programs, community living options, and a wide array of mental health services including crisis services, counseling, and substance use disorder treatment and prevention programs.