Walton Options was established through a collaboration between the Georgia Rehabilitation Institute and Walton Rehabilitation Hospital and a partnership with the Area Agency on Aging.
The goal was to provide individuals with disabilities in the Augusta area with equal access to support, resources, and life opportunities as those without disabilities. -GRI
In 1994 Walton Options for Independent Living became a private, non-profit, non-residential Center for Independent Living (CIL)!
The first South Carolina office was originally established in Gloverville, SC at The Lady Of the Valley Church in 1995.
“The office was little more than a small desk and old style connected phone located in the small community fellowship unattached building”.
–Cyndy Milstead-Anzek South Carolina Director
In 1996 the student instructional program was created, thanks in part to a grant provided by the SC Chamber of Commerce. The grant allowed us the ability to develop plans and provided training which laid the foundation for classroom instruction programs later branded as the CareerBoost and OhYEA programs.
Walton Foundation for Independence was founded to offer adaptive sports, camps for children with disabilities and their families, and leisure programs to create more inclusive lifestyles for people with disabilities.
Walton Options original location was on 13th Street, relocated to 15th Street, then moved to its current location on Walton Way in 2000.
In 2010 the Walterboro office was established to provide a physical location for consumers living in the South Carolina Low Country
In May 2017 South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster signed House Bill 3538 – the “Persons with Disabilities Right to Parent Act”.
Walton Options and sister CILs across the state came together to Advocate for this important milestone.
In 2019 Walton Options assumed operations of Walton Foundation for Independence. Allowing more individuals with disabilities to partake in sports, health, and leisure activities in and around the CSRA.
Many Staff members have served on both the GA & SC SILC. Robbie Breshears, Shelia Kitchens, directors Cyndy Anzek, and Tiffany Clifford served as Treasurer and Secretary.
Today Walton Options is proud to have served thousands of consumers in our five core service areas spread across the CSRA. We look forward to serving many more in the future!
