In 1956, a small group of Cobb County parents fought the prevailing system of the time of institutionalizing children with developmental disabilities, determined that they would not put their kids away. They became known as Right in the Community, a trailblazing organization in the Special Needs community that accomplished many “firsts” to meet the needs they saw. This year, the organization became Special Needs Cobb to reflect its commitment to providing Resources, Respite and Residential services for families right in the community.

“We focus on the entire family unit, not just the individual,” said Debbie Day, executive director. “We provide respite care to relieve some of the stress of caregiving, keeping families strong and together. We connect parents with other families who ‘get it,’ and hold their hands as they navigate the complicated system of resources. Finally, we give people with disabilities a path to greater independence and opportunities to shine and reach their full potential.”

Special Needs Cobb, with the help of its partners and donors, operates 23 Group Homes for special needs adults in Cobb and Bartow counties. These are “homes for life” for 92 residents, approximately 40 percent of whom are orphans or have no family connections and need SNC to keep a roof over their heads. SNC provides loving care in affordable, accessible group home settings that give residents the chance to experience greater independence and self-determination. 

The SNC Respite Home is Cobb County’s only facilities-based respite program for special needs people. While operations at the Respite Home are temporarily suspended due to COVID-19, it was established to provide families with a break from caregiving responsibilities while allowing special needs children and adults the opportunity for a weekend of fun activities and social interaction.

In response to COVID-19 social distancing concerns, Special Needs Cobb is partnering with TDJgolf.com, named one of the seven best social and digital golfing apps at the 2019 PGA show, to host a virtual fundraising event hoping to draw 200 golfers. To support this important Cobb County nonprofit, join them for the U.S. Open Fantasy Golf Pro-Am event taking place Sept. 17-20. Golfers from anywhere in the world can take part in the event, which allows them to form a fantasy team with their favorite pros. Golfers will play rounds of golf at courses of their choice, and their best scores will be submitted as part of the fantasy team for a chance to appear on the leaderboard alongside the golfing greats. Supporters can register at specialneedscobb.org.