Almost 700 guests attended a February circus-themed gala to help those with autism.
A Night Under the Big Top, benefiting Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center, was held at The Club.
All proceeds from the ninth annual gala go to Glenwood’s outpatient services programs for children affected by autism spectrum disorder.
The event was hosted by Glenwood’s Junior Board.
Those attending this year’s gala could make bets for a good cause. The event featured casino games, food and drinks.
There was a VIP room with wine tastings by Rush Wines and music from The Undergrounders.
The gala also included live and silent auctions with items including vacation packages and jewelry from Levy’s.
The auction also included 50-yard line tickets to the Alabama-LSU game.
Glenwood started in 1973 as a private, nonprofit organization. The organization was founded as Child Mental Health Services by a group of community members, including Vera Bruhn, Cecil Bauer, Judge Ross Bell, Barbara Camp, Lucius Colvin, Jack Cress, Charlotte Dollar, Tricia Echols, Dr. Robert Estock, Dean Gambrell, Jim Gewin, Ethel Gorman, Dr. Ann Harper, Myron Harper, Bill Hinds, Fay Ireland, Mallie and Glenn Ireland, Paula Kimerling, Marti Kitchens, Dr. Patrick Linton, Dr. Andrew Lorincz, Shirley and Charles Seay, Joe Shaw, Dr. Alan Sheeley, Nancy Smith, Dr. Joe Smythies, Doris Tate, Rev. Martin Tilson and Dr. Herman Willcutt.
The organization was founded prior to the law which entitles all children to a free, appropriate public education. This group of community leaders was aware of the special needs of children who could not easily be served in existing programs and who were often excluded from services.
The group’s mission was to respond to that need. Their vision was to develop “a special place for special people.”
The center opened in 1974 and almost immediately, the demand for services soared. The center started with one staff member in 1974 and now has 270 on staff.
For more information, visit glenwood.org.