The Orange Grove Center is a private non-profit organization serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Founded in 1953 by community leaders and parents seeking better services for children with disabilities, the organization has been a national figurehead in developing education about and services for individuals with disabilities. Today, the Center offers individualized services and programs to over 1,000 children and adults each year. The Orange Grove Center is committed to transforming their community into a place that is “truly inclusive and diverse, where all of its citizens have the skills and support necessary to live the life they want.”
Maintaining long-term support for individuals with disabilities is paramount to the Center's mission. In an effort to sustain this support, the Orange Grove Center hosted a sold-out “Bingo for the Grove” fundraiser. Held at the Hunter Museum, the event began with a cocktail hour where drinks were enjoyed along the panoramic views of the Tennessee River. As the sun set, Bingo, a silent auction, dinner and entertainment by The Atlanta Allstars followed.
The fundraiser was successful in increasing social awareness and garnering financial support for the Center. Funds raised at the event supported the center’s physical education, art, and music programs. Because Orange Grove does not receive funding outside what they raise independently, these programs are entirely dependent upon the success of the Center’s fundraising events.
The Orange Grove Center is named after the Osage orange, a plant that bears inedible fruit. While the fruit of the tree does not have conventional use as a food source, the tree has a wide variety of uses that often go unnoticed. Similarly, the Orange Grove Center, led by those who nurture and bring awareness to those with immense potential who might otherwise be overlooked continues to elevate our community.