Due to high demand for services for individuals with autism and other mental health concerns, Glenwood, Inc. is expanding in Avondale for the fourth time since 2018. The expansion includes a new Arts Center and space that will double the capacity for the Children’s Center. The two programs are located at 620 38th Street South.
Glenwood moved some administrative offices in the spring of 2018, then opened a new program, the Mallie M. Ireland Children’s Center in the fall of 2018. The next year, Glenwood moved Outpatient Services to Avondale.
“Our Children’s Center has had great success in improving the quality of life for young children. Additional space allows more children and families to benefit from life-changing behavior, speech and occupational therapies. The Arts Center provides art, music, movement and other activities to both children and adults. “We are delighted to fill what has been a great need for those we serve. We plan to eventually open these services to others in the community,” said Ken Oliver, president and chief executive office.
The expansion was possible because of Glenwood’s ninth and largest capital campaign, which raised $10 million. Several individuals and organizations have provided financial contributions toward this service expansion. To provide space for the expansion, Glenwood renovated a warehouse on their Avondale campus to meet the needs. Stephen Coker is the architect for the project, and Douglas Built, LLC handled construction of the 7,500 square feet expansion.
“Glenwood’s Arts Center is staffed with trained, talented, and compassionate people. It is a critical component for helping with the well-being and happiness of the individuals who are served in Glenwood’s housing and attend its schools and day programs,” said Oliver. Structured hands-on experiences such as painting, working with clay, drawing, singing, and drumming are offered.
Intense Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is offered one-on-one and in group settings for children with autism ages 2-6 years old in Glenwood’s Children’s Center. ABA is a scientifically based treatment that is conducted to bring about positive and meaningful changes in behavior. It is a highly individualized treatment based on the principles of human behavior with an emphasis on positive reinforcement.
“With 1 in 54 children diagnosed with autism each year, the need for these services is great. Glenwood is proud to offer these critical therapies to more children in the community. We are so thankful for the volunteers who raised the money and the donors who contributed to make these leading-edge services possible,” said Oliver.
Glenwood is unique in offering a continuum of care in which services are offered to children as young as 18 months and throughout their lifespan. The Avondale campus adds to Glenwood’s Birmingham presence of diagnostic, educational, and living arrangements on the main campus off of Sicard Hollow Road and throughout the community.
Click here photos of the renovation progress.
