Finding Solutions: Georgia Rehabilitation Institute supporting those with disabilities

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Making sure people with disabilities have the same support, resources and opportunities as everyone else – that’s the mission of the Georgia Rehabilitation Institute.

They once provided medical services through the Walton Rehabilitation Hospital which was sold back in 2013.

With the funds from the sale, GRI is finding solutions in supporting local groups with the same mission.

It’s a facility located on 13th Street with a strong message outside, “love where you live Augusta.”

It’s also a place you’re sure to find something to love on the inside.

The 523 gallery is filled with artwork created by artists with disabilities.

“Each year we add to it, so we continue to populate the gallery with artwork done by various people throughout the state of Georgia as well as local artists,” said Dennis Skelley, president/CEO of the Gerogia Rehabilitation Institute.

Skelley says the gallery is just one of several ways they support people with disabilities.

“The two things that always surface as top priorities are accessible housing and accessible transportation,” said Skelley. “Both of those are expensive endeavors and by partnering with organizations who are in that business or look provide those services we find that we can do more.”

Skelley says that’s why they’ve partnered with the augusta transit to upgrade bus stops by adding ramps and sidewalks.

“Last year we selected six locations and upgraded those bus stops to be fully accessible and we are in the process of choosing six more this year and we will do the same thing,” he said.

“We really want to make Augusta a community for people with disabilities to live, work and play,” said Skelley

As for accessible housing, GRI is currently working with Augusta Housing and Community Development to renovate six homes as well as build a new duplex that will be fully accessible.

A project we plan to follow once it gets going.

The 523 gallery is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, you can visit the GRI’s website here.

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