COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) - More than 9 million people in America are diagnosed with autism, including 1 in 45 adults. A new facility is coming to the area to enrich and empower the lives of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Retired Army Gen. Andy Hilmes and his wife have raised a son with autism for two decades. They are also advocates for others facing similar challenges.
Nikki Hilmes, who founded the local Autism Learning Center, is now the director of the new day program of Macon-based Wesley Glen Ministries in downtown Columbus. The facility is expected to open late summer. An open house is scheduled for later this month.
The couple recently discussed their emotional journey and how the Christian organization is offering lifelong day programming for people with these disabilities.
“Walking through parks, going on hikes, being able to go to a coffee shop, just enjoying all the small things in life we tend to take for granted,” Andy Hilmes said.
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“It’s figuring out what does that person want to do, what are they destined to do. What is their purpose? What is God’s will for that person?” Nikki Hilmes said.
Wesley Glen will host an open house on June 23 at 900 Front Avenue in Columbus from 4:30 to 7 p.m.
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