One of the most fundamental changes that reform brings is the expectation that every Local Management Entity establishes a Consumer and Family Advisory Council (CFAC) to serve as active partners with SMC’s Board and Administration in implementing the goals of reform. The Smoky Mountain Consumer and Family Advisory Council was initiated in July of 2002 and has worked in collaboration with SMC in developing and reviewing the local business plan.

While SMC has had several projects that have involved consumer and family advocates, the CFAC represents a more focused and structured way for SMC and other local management entities, to work in “constructive partnership” with consumers and families to infuse their experiences into service delivery models and community collaboration. Key roles of the CFAC include:

• Establishing a line of communication with administration and to listen to issues and programs being considered, identify local service needs in the new system, and to identify informal resources in communities;

• Serve as a voice for other individuals and family members who have mental health, developmental disability and substance abuse need. CFAC members should talk with other people in their communities about needed services, supports and resources.

• Participate in advocacy efforts for changes that the State should consider as part of reform.

• Look at quality improvement and quality assurance to ensure high quality services in the communities served by SMC.

• Work to initiate programs that allow for peer support and consumer advocacy in each community.