Empowering Lives, Connecting Communities

Logo for Diversified Community Services featuring stylized initials D, C, and S with the company name in cursive.

Diversified Community Services, LLC provides Community Engagement and Community Coaching services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We help people connect, grow, and thrive in their communities with the support of compassionate, professional staff.

Meet the Team

  • A woman sitting at a desk, wearing a black top with puffed sleeves, gold hoop earrings, and jewelry including rings and a bracelet, in an office with white shelves and a computer in the background.

    Mrs. Betty Brister

    FOUNDER/ Executive Director

    Mrs. Betty Brister is the visionary behind Diversified Community Services, LLC. With an extensive background in human services, she has dedicated her career to supporting individuals of all ages—adults, adolescents, and children. As a former Administrator with years of hands-on experience, Mrs. Brister brings unmatched leadership and insight to the organization. Her unwavering dedication, deep compassion, and love for helping others are at the heart of everything we do. Mrs. Brister is passionate about connecting people with the services, resources, and community opportunities they need to lead empowered, meaningful lives.

  • A woman with curly, reddish-brown hair, wearing a grey top, pink lipstick, a gold necklace with a key pendant, smiling in a room with white shelves in the background.

    Ms. Sherrell Banks-Smiley, MS, ASDI

    Co-Founder/ Program Director

    Sherrell Banks-Smiley brings over 20 years of dedicated experience in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities. She holds both a Master's and Bachelor's degree in Psychology and is certified as an Autism Informed Professional. Sherrell is widely respected for her unwavering compassion, professionalism, and commitment to person-centered care. As Program Director, she leads with purpose, always placing individuals first and championing inclusive, community-based services that empower and inspire.

Who we are

Empowering Lives, Connecting Communities

At Diversified Community Services, LLC, we are committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through our Community Engagement and Community Coaching programs. Rooted in the values and guidance set forth by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS), our services are designed to promote personal growth, foster independence, and create lasting connections within the community.

We believe that every person deserves the opportunity to live a full, engaged life to explore interests, build relationships, and contribute to their community in ways that are meaningful to them. Our compassionate and professional staff are dedicated to walking alongside each individual, supporting their goals with dignity, respect, and unwavering encouragement.

Whether it's volunteering, participating in recreational outings, learning new skills, or engaging in community-based projects, our programs are built to nurture confidence, expand opportunities, and celebrate each person’s unique potential.

When you choose Diversified Community Services, you’re not just accessing services you’re becoming part of a supportive, person-centered team that genuinely cares. Join us, and discover how community engagement and coaching can open new doors and transform everyday experiences into empowering journeys.

A man in a hat and glasses in a wheelchair is speaking into a microphone held by a woman with curly hair. Both are wearing masks, and there are several people seated in the background in a conference or meeting room.
A young woman pushing an elderly woman in a wheelchair outdoors on a grassy area, with trees and greenery in the background.

Our Person-Centered Approach

We don’t just follow a person-centered model we live it. At Diversified Community Services, our programs are built around the individual, not the other way around. We take the time to truly understand each person’s strengths, dreams, and goals crafting support that reflects who they are and where they want to go. It's more than care it’s a commitment to helping people lead self-directed, fulfilling lives on their own terms.

What We Offer

  • Community Engagement

    We support individuals in participating in meaningful volunteer activities, social groups, and community events—fostering personal development and stronger community ties.

    Four people walking outside on a sidewalk, smiling and enjoying each other's company.

  • Community Coaching

    Our one-on-one support model helps individuals achieve personal goals, build skills, and engage confidently in community life with guidance tailored to their unique needs.

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Why Choose Us?

✓ Compassionate and experienced staff
✓ Person-centered approach
✓ Inclusive and engaging programming
✓ Aligned with DBHDS service standards

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A diverse group of six coworkers gathered around a laptop in an office, smiling and celebrating.
  • A man standing outdoors in a park flying a colorful rainbow kite.

    Explore it.

  • People playing ping pong indoors, with some watching in the background.

    Learn it.

  • A man and woman happily cooking together in a modern kitchen, with a person preparing food in the background.

    Make it.

  • Two women shopping together in a grocery store aisle, looking at snack products on the shelves.

    Teach it.

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Discover how Diversified Community Services, LLC can make a difference in your life or your loved one’s. We’re here to help you succeed every step of the way.

Join the team

Why Work With Us?

Join our team and make a real impact! At Diversified Community Services, LLC, we’re more than just a workplace—we’re a mission-driven family that values compassion, integrity, and inclusion. As part of our team, you’ll play a vital role in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to reach their goals and live meaningful lives. We offer a supportive work environment, ongoing training, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. If you’re passionate about making a difference, we want to hear from you!

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A woman with curly hair smiling, wearing glasses, earrings, and layered necklaces, in an indoor setting.
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Contact us

Ready to Learn More or Get Started? We’d Love to Hear From You!