At Easterseals Arkansas, we are proud to spotlight team members who bring dedication, heart, and innovation to the work of empowering people with disabilities. One such standout is Billy Shuburte, a licensed clinical social worker and driving force behind efforts to expand access to mental health care for individuals with disabilities. With over two decades of experience, Billy’s work is as thoughtful as it is impactful — and his story is one that resonates with our mission deeply.
From Blytheville to Little Rock: A Life Built on Service
Born in Alexandria, Louisiana and raised in Blytheville, Arkansas, Billy’s path to social work was both purposeful and passionate. After starting his college journey at Harding University where he played football, he transferred to Arkansas State University to complete a Bachelor of Science degree. That move kicked off a lifelong commitment to helping others.
He went on to earn a Master of Social Work – Clinical Emphasis from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, and later added a Juris Doctorate from UALR's William H. Bowen School of Law — combining two fields that would become essential in his mission to improve mental health access for people with disabilities.
“I realized that there’s a deep connection between mental health and the legal system. To be effective, I needed to understand both,” Billy Don says.
Today, with an Arkansas LCSW license and over 20 years of experience, he brings clinical wisdom and strategic thinking to Easterseals Arkansas.
Creating a Groundbreaking Program: The CSSP Initiative
Billy joined Easterseals Arkansas with a clear purpose — to help design and launch the CSSP program (Community Support System Provider), a pioneering initiative that bridges the gap between CES Waiver services and mental health therapy. This new approach ensures individuals with disabilities don’t have to choose between developmental supports and the mental health care they need. They've rebranded the program as Behavior Waiver, or "BxW" for short, as it perfectly blends the essence of waiver and behavioral health.
“I came to Easterseals specifically to help create the CSSP program,” he shares. “The goal is to ensure that people with disabilities can access comprehensive care that addresses their entire well-being.”
His background — working in outpatient behavioral health, hospice care, and adult day-treatment programs — uniquely positions him to understand the complex needs of individuals with co-occurring diagnoses.
Understanding People from the Inside Out
Billy is known for his ability to see the whole person — not just a diagnosis or behavior. With over a decade of firsthand therapy experience for people with disabilities, he brings deep empathy and a clinical lens to his work.
“I have a knack for understanding the biological, psychological, and social factors that shape someone’s world,” he explains. “That understanding helps people feel seen and supported.”
Whether he's working one-on-one with an individual or helping shape systemic change, Billy’s approach is grounded in compassion, clarity, and common sense.
The Academy at Easterseals: Laying the Foundation for Lifelong Impact
While Billy works primarily in the adult services space, the ripple effect of his work extends to programs like The Academy at Easterseals Arkansas, where children and young adults receive critical academic and therapeutic support. The Academy plays a key role in preparing students for adult programs like the Waiver services that Billy enhances through CSSP.
“When you have a strong foundation early on — like what The Academy provides — individuals are more equipped to succeed later in life,” he says. “That continuum of support is what makes Easterseals unique.”
Together, programs like The Academy and Waiver Services reflect Easterseals’ commitment to walking with individuals and families every step of the way.
Beyond the Office: Coach, Volunteer, Dad
Outside of work, Billy is deeply devoted to his wife of 25 years and their four children — Avery, Emersyn, Gabby, and Harrison. His passion for sports extends beyond his own college days; he coaches his son’s Pulaski Academy football team and Blue Birds baseball team, and also volunteers with Miracle League, Special Olympics, and Upward Soccer.
“Sports teach life lessons that stick with you — regardless of your abilities,” he says. “I love being a part of that for my kids and for others in the community.”
When he’s not coaching, you can find him recharging at home or taking in a game — whether it’s professional, collegiate, or school-level.
Legacy of Leadership: “Empowering People with Common Sense and Compassion”
Billy isn’t one for titles or accolades — he prefers results. But his colleagues and the individuals he serves would undoubtedly say he leaves a lasting impression.
“I want to be remembered as someone who helped others address mental health challenges with clarity, compassion, and practical support,” he shares.
His work reminds us that true leadership is quiet, purposeful, and deeply human.
Thank You, Billy – Join Us in Making a Difference
At Easterseals Arkansas, we are honored to have professionals like Billy Shuburte on our team — individuals who combine expertise with empathy, and purpose with passion.
We’re always looking for people who want to make a difference. If you’re inspired by Billy’s story and believe in empowering others, we invite you to join our mission.
👉 Explore career opportunities at Easterseals Arkansas
Together, we can help every individual thrive.
