Glenwood To Mark 50 Years of Serving Community
By: Scarlet Thompson
Families, donors, employees and other supporters of Glenwood will gather Tuesday, May 14, to celebrate five decades of services for the organization. The anniversary event will take place at Allan Cott School on its Sicard Hollow Campus and will include a tour of that facility, remarks by dignitaries, and fellowship.
“It’s an exciting time for Glenwood, as we reflect on the successes over the last fifty years with pride and humility. We owe those successes to our incredible staff, dedicated Board of Directors, and the families who have trusted us with the care of their loved ones,” said Ken Oliver, President and CEO.
Glenwood began in 1974, serving about 18 children in a church basement. At the time, 1 in 10,000 children were being diagnosed with autism. Today, that number is 1 in 36.
“Glenwood has answered the call with steadfast, resilient and compassionate care as the needs of those with autism have grown exponentially since the organization’s establishment,” said Edward Sledge, chair of Glenwood’s Board of Directors.
Glenwood currently touches the lives of more than 8,000 families each year through over 40 programs that include diagnostic services, residential support, early intervention/education, and teacher trainings. It’s something Sledge says couldn’t be done without individuals and businesses who share the common goal of helping all people reach their potential.
“The community’s support of Glenwood has been the steam engine for its expansion of services. As the needs for Glenwood’s services increase, so too will its need for community engagement and support,” said Sledge. “There is no greater statement of a community’s health than how it reaches out in support of others in need.”
The 50th anniversary event is by invite only due to limited space. Anyone wanting to share their congratulations is welcome to email 50years@glenwood.org. Festivities will continue throughout 2024 to celebrate this special milestone.