Our History
In March 1941, Mr. and Mrs. Carl Huie raced against time to take their daughter, Carlton, to Dr. Lawson Thorton and his orthopedic team at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. This marked the beginning of an eight-year treatment journey for Carlton. Determined, Mrs. Huie vowed that nothing would stop her from establishing a rehabilitation center in Albany, Georgia, to support individuals with disabilities in South Georgia. After years of engaging with the community, Easterseals Southern Georgia was opened in 1957, founded by Mrs. Mildred Nix Huie as a traditional medical rehabilitation program.
Over the years, Easterseals Southern Georgia has adapted to the unmet needs of its region, recognizing that there is always more to be done. In 1992, the organization launched an ambitious plan to develop four major program lines that remain prominent today: family support services, residential services, respite care, and job programs/vocational training.
In 2017, Easterseals Southern Georgia expanded its reach beyond Southern Georgia, adding 14 counties in North Florida and another 4 in the Panhandle of Florida by 2023. This expansion significantly increased our impact, enabling us to serve more communities. At that time, our organization began operating under the names Easterseals Southern Georgia and Easterseals Northwest Florida, reflecting our commitment to the region.
With a rich history of service, Easterseals Southern Georgia works diligently to provide comprehensive support, advocacy, and resources that promote inclusion and independence for children and adults with disabilities, as well as their families. Year after year, the organization consistently assists thousands of individuals and their families across Southern Georgia and Northwest Florida. By ensuring access to essential services, we aim to foster resilience that strengthens individuals and their families while uplifting our entire community.
