Dear friends,
Over the past several years as an advocate, I have witnessed community-based services in Texas for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities face hard decisions, such as whether or not to close their doors, or struggle to care for individuals with overworked and underpaid staff. I’ve heard fear and hopelessness from families. Families are disheartened by the lack of quality day services, and worse of all, are being turned away because agencies are at capacity. And I’ve been there myself as I watched my daughter, Ashton, cycle in and out of various programs, some of which she was kicked out of.
If you had asked me four years ago what my future looked like, I saw myself closing out my career at Spindletop Center. That being said, there have been times in my life where God has shown me His plan, in which I could no longer resist by staying on the same path, doing the same thing. I’ve learned there is a season for everything, including a time to let go and plant a new seed. Change is needed, and change is good.
With the gracious land donation by the Houseman Companies, we will create a place where individuals can not only find support, but truly thrive—a place offering purpose, growth, and community. Garlyn Place is stepping up to fill this devastating void in our community, to build a place our loved ones need and deserve.
At Garlyn Place, we believe those living with lifelong disabilities are destined to be Uniters when given the opportunity. Uniters are individuals who overcome separation and isolation to promote unity and bring people together.
With over twenty-five years in the field, I bring a comprehensive understanding of the policy landscape and practical application of what community-based services look like for individuals with disabilities. Garlyn Place will provide a high-quality rural life of opportunities, friendship, and a sense of belonging. Through faith and hard work, I am determined to make us a staple in our community.
As the board and I have started this journey to grow a brighter future for our Uniters, I ask you to plant seeds for growth by making a gift to Garlyn Place. Every contribution, no matter the size, will cultivate opportunities for those we serve.
Together, we will make Garlyn Place a reality.
With appreciation,
Patricia Allen
Executive Director & Founder
Good afternoon. Are y’all up and running? Is Garlyn place up and running or are you still working to make it happen? ( your note sounds like in the future.).
I am a high school life skills teacher and I am searching for places like yours for our students to be able to continue to grow.
Are you like a Sagan? Or a live in center?
Heidi, thank you for reaching out to us. Sorry for the delay in responding. Your comments were not routed to our inbox email. We have that fixed now. Garlyn Place still in development. The Uniters (individuals) who are 18 and older, are currently meeting once a day every other week at the Executive Director’s home. Once a quarter we make a field trip to Stark Museum. We look to provide day program twice a day from 9am to 3pm in space being provided by a local church come February or March of 2026. God willing we plan to have our facility built and open by January 2027, which is located in Vidor, Texas. Please email me at customersupport@garlynplace.org, I’ll send our brochure and interest form for you to share with families.