Position on Boa
rd: Trustee, Program Committee
Counties represented: Houston
A lifelong resident of Houston County, Lois Ball was born and raised in the Germany community near Crockett and graduated from Crockett High School in 1973. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Records and Social Work from Texas Woman’s University before beginning a career that spanned more than 33 years in public service.
Lois served 13½ years with the Houston County Tax Office and 20 years with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), where she worked closely with individuals and families in need. Since retiring in 2011, she has remained active in Houston County through volunteer service, local boards, and her church. She and her husband, Floyd, have three sons and enjoy spending time with family.
How did you first get involved with Burke?
What was your first impression of Burke?
From the beginning, I found Burke staff to be caring and willing to help. Over the years, I’ve seen the organization continue to improve access to services and support for people living with mental illness. While the need has grown tremendously, I’ve also seen Burke expand programs and work hard to connect people with the care they need. The biggest challenge isn’t Burke’s commitment. It’s that there are simply more people who need services than the current system can support.
What do you wish other people knew about Burke?
Many people think Burke only serves individuals experiencing a mental health crisis, but that’s only part of the story. Burke offers counseling, outpatient treatment, case management, medication services, and many other programs that help people stay healthy before a crisis occurs. I also wish more people understood that seeking help for depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns is no different than seeking care for a physical illness. The stigma surrounding mental health still prevents too many people from getting the help they need.
What changes do you hope to see in Mental Health or IDD services in the future?
I’d like to see people gain access to services more quickly. Early intervention can often prevent a crisis and improve long-term outcomes. I also hope to see more community education, additional resources, and continued support from state leaders so organizations like Burke can meet the growing need for mental health and IDD services across East Texas.
How would someone describe you?
People would probably describe me as committed and always willing to help. Even after retiring from DFPS, I continue assisting people in my community with finding resources, completing paperwork, and connecting to services.
What do you do when you aren’t volunteering?
I enjoy gardening, working in my flower beds, and staying active through volunteer service. I serve on several local boards, volunteer with community organizations, and am active in my church. Whatever I’m involved in, I believe in giving it my full commitment.
