Orange Grove started providing services in Georgia with approval by the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities in 2012, and now supports over 100 individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities in North Georgia. Demand for services has continually increased, especially with respect to residential options, officials said. The first home was purchased at 3990 Boynton Dr. from the Harris family.
Orange Grove worked in partnership with Catoosa County government to remodel the home and assure it was ready to apply for licensure as a Community Living Arrangement from the Georgia Department of Community Health. Licensure was granted in September of 2022. Orange Grove continues to work with the Georgia DBHDD to achieve full licensure for residential services.
The house will be a home to three people supported by Orange Grove, who will have staff available to help them grow their independent living skills and offer opportunities for further community inclusion.
This will be the first group residential home of its kind in Catoosa County.
"We are thrilled that we are finally able to offer these critical residential services to people and families who need it," said Tera Roberts, Orange Grove CEO. "Expanding services in Georgia has been an important part of our strategic planning since we first opened an office there, and we are fortunate to have so many partners to help bring this dream to life. Their advice and support have been critical to our success in taking this next big step."
Wayne Collins, Orange Grove chief operations officer, added, “We are grateful for all the input and help from Catoosa County Government, Catoosa Fire Marshall's office, Todd Henon Realty, Georgia DBHDD, Orange Grove Board of Directors, the Wanda Fleming Committee and the ladies of Alpha Beta ESA.
Orange Grove Center is hosting an Open House/ribbon cutting at the home on Thursday from 4-6 p.m.