Savannah’s Greenbriar Children’s Center Marks 75 Years of Caring for Kids
On a delightful Friday evening, the city of Savannah came together to honor a local treasure—Greenbriar Children’s Center, Inc.—as they celebrated a remarkable milestone: their 75th Gala. The event took place in the elegant setting of the Hyatt Regency Hotel, where community members gathered to reflect on decades of nurturing children and strengthening families.
A Joyful Journey Through the Years
Since its founding in 1949, Greenbriar has been a beacon of hope for children and families. Originally established as an orphanage for African American children by the dedicated members of the Gamma Sigma Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the center has evolved tremendously. With support from local philanthropist Adeline Graham and influential leaders like Rev. Ralph Mark Gilbert of the First African Baptist Church, Greenbriar now serves children and families from all walks of life.
As guests mingled and shared stories at the gala, many expressed their gratitude for the invaluable services that Greenbriar provides. The evening was not just a look back; it was a celebration of the transformative programs that continue to enhance the lives of those in the community.
Mission of Impact and Compassion
The mission of Greenbriar Children’s Center is crystal clear: to offer services that promote the healthy development of children and the strengthening of families. Their wide range of offerings includes:
- Childcare
- Accredited and affordable early learning programs (including Georgia Pre-K)
- Family preservation and counseling services
- Emergency shelter for children and young adults
With over 70 Project Safe Place sites scattered throughout the Savannah area, Greenbriar ensures that help is always within reach for those who need it the most. They are proud to be accredited by the Council of Accreditation for Children and Family Services and have received a Georgia Quality Rating for their early learning programs, solidifying their reputation as a pillar of the community.
Expanding the Ability to Help
The programs offered by Greenbriar reflect a comprehensive understanding of the challenges many families face. Their offerings not only focus on children’s immediate needs but also address underlying issues that contribute to hardship. For example, they tackle Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), helping families find healing and resilience.
During the gala, the atmosphere was filled with hope and positivity as attendees learned more about the various programs and how they can contribute to the cause. For those who could not attend but still wish to make a difference, Greenbriar has made it easy to get involved. People can visit their website at www.greenbriarchildrenscenter.org to give online and help local children in need.
Looking Ahead with Hope
As the night drew to a close, many were left with a sense of optimism about the future of Greenbriar Children’s Center. They have a rich history, and the gala was not just a celebration of the past but a promise of continued service and dedication to the community. The center’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of children and families in Savannah is the thread that has woven together many lives over the past 75 years.
Here’s to another 75 years of making a difference, one child and family at a time!
