Construction of a new 6,500 square-foot building in Augusta’s downtown will host both Walton Options for Independent Living and Walton Foundation for Independence.
Planned to be completed December 2021, the Center for Disability Rights and Resources will be located at 948 Walton Way. Resources, programs and services currently provided by both Walton agencies will stem from the new location. The center will contain spaces for meetings, instruction, a communications lab and conference area.
The Georgia Rehabilitation Institute presented a $325,000 check toward the launch of the building campaign estimated to cost more than $1 million. Groundbreaking is scheduled for April. The project will be completed by Allen + Batchelor Construction and financed by First Citizens Bank.
The new building will provide a more efficient venue to provide services and will allow the Walton agencies to better collaborate with other involved agencies, said Executive Director Tiffany Clifford.
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Demolition of a 3,000-square foot building will take place before construction begins, Clifford added. The nonprofit is in the process of obtaining all the necessary permits.
Since 1994, Walton Options has helped people with disabilities to live independently, according to the organization’s website. Services include information and referral, independent living skills, institutional transition advocacy & outreach and peer support, according to its website.
The mission of the Walton Foundation for Independence is to inspire philanthropy to support programs and services that create an inclusive lifestyle for people in the communities with disabilities, according to its website.
Donations for the new center are open to individuals as well as local businesses and organizations. To donate to the center’s building campaign contact Ann Campbell-Kelly at 706-724-6262, ext. 243.
Shellie Smitley is a staff writer for The Augusta Press. Reach her at shellie@theaugustapress.com
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