AFTER 45 YEARS of day services at Gallagher’s Pot Spring Road location in Timonium, a relocation is underway.
“We are very excited about our upcoming move to our new community center in neighboring Dulaney Valley,” said Kathy Clemente administrator for Gallagher Services. “Although we are redesigning the vacant space at Catholic Charities’ Villa Maria building about a mile away, the location will allow us to reimagine the experience of a traditional day program and serve as a vibrant hub of activity and community engagement. This change will allow us to joyfully welcome the people we support, volunteers, and community members to a large open space while giving every person’s journey the support it needs.”
Gallagher Services, which started in 1977, supports adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in living the life of their choice. Adults are supported in living, working, and being involved in the community as independently as possible. The Cornerstones of the program are Person-Centered Planning and the mission and values of Catholic Charities.
Those with significant medical challenges will get the services they need and a chance to see their friends, while others may come and go individually or in small groups, based on their individualized plans for the day.
The $1.5M renovated facility will allow more people with extensive needs to receive high-quality services at the community center day program, in addition to participating in activities consisting of arts and entertainment, self-advocacy opportunities, and socializing.
“Those attending the day program will be able to go out into the community and participate in local activities,” said Alyscia Smith Gallagher Services director of day programs. “Our new building will be located in the heart of Baltimore County where Timonium Fairgrounds is right around the corner and known to hold different events throughout the year that those who attend the program can enjoy.”
“This space shows our commitment to person-centered planning and community integration,” said Clemente. “We envision this center as the start of something bigger in the journey of how we serve those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”
Gallagher Services plans to partner with area colleges, universities, churches, and businesses to inquire about ways to work together to enrich the lives of those they support while also doing its part to support the community.
The new Gallagher community center is expected to open early 2023.
