The Bailey Center for Special Needs - Going Beyond Boundaries

08/30/2025

💛❤️💚💙

Gov. Glenn Youngkin and the first lady presented the 2025 Spirit of Virginia Award to a special needs center in Mecklenburg County that highlights autism awareness.

08/28/2025

The Bailey Center is deeply humbled and honored to receive the final Spirit of Virginia Award from Governor Glenn Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne Youngkin. This recognition is not ours alone—it belongs to the incredible community that has walked alongside us, supported our mission, and made this dream a reality. Together, we are building a place of hope, inclusion, and belonging for families across Southside Virginia.

Photo Credits: Robert Harris Photography

08/28/2025

"Inclusion isn’t about allowing someone to join in; it’s about wanting them there, embracing who they are, and empowering them to shine as their authentic self."

True inclusion goes beyond just making space — it’s about creating an environment where everyone belongs and is valued for who they truly are. We don’t “let” people be included out of obligation or tolerance; we actively welcome their presence, their voice, and their unique contributions. Inclusion means recognizing that everyone’s differences add richness, strength, and diversity to our communities. It’s not about fitting someone into a mold, but allowing them to stand alongside us, just as they are, with the confidence that their presence matters.

Empowerment thrives when people feel seen, respected, and encouraged to be their whole selves. That’s when real inclusion happens — not by permission, but by wholehearted celebration.

08/27/2025

Tune in to our special live stream as the Governor visits the Bailey Center to present a prestigious award and honor the difference being made in the lives of others.

Governor Glenn Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin Present the Sixth Spirit of Virginia Award of 2025 to The Bailey Center for Special Needs. https://t.co/NTpWOZ2HR9

08/27/2025

Please join us! 💚💛💚

08/26/2025

Still can't figure out why our backs hurt... any ideas?

08/25/2025

🥳🎉 A big CONGRATULATIONS to Leigh Ann Garza

On being the lucky winner of our BE Howerton Construction LLC YETI cooler giveaway—packed full of goodies, gifts, and treats from some amazing local sponsors! 🙌💙

✨ Huge shoutout to our awesome sponsors (in alphabetical order):
• 313 Franklin Kitchen & Cocktails
• Bringleton’s
• Butterfly Rose Florist & Gift
• Harper Jewelry
• Longbranch Rodeo
• Lundy Lane
• Sunrise Therapeutic Services

👏 THANK YOU to EVERYONE who purchased tickets—you didn’t just enter a raffle, you helped support the mission of The Bailey Center for Special Needs – Going Beyond Boundaries. Together, we’re making a difference

08/24/2025

📣 What’s Happening This Week at The Bailey Center! 🎉

📅 August 24th – August 30th
We’ve got a fun week ahead before we take a short break for Labor Day weekend!

💃 Dance Class – Get your dancing shoes ready! We’ll be bringing the energy and fun in our dance session this week. Day/time coming soon!

🌳 Park Meet-Up Day – Let’s head outside and enjoy the sunshine! Join us for a laid-back day at the park filled with fun, friends, and fresh air. Bring your water bottles and good vibes!

🚪 Center Closed – Just a reminder, The Bailey Center will be CLOSED from August 29th through September 1st. We hope everyone enjoys a safe and restful holiday weekend!

🌟 Dancing with the Stars Rehearsal – If you're part of the show, don’t forget our rehearsal is Saturday, August 30th at 10:00 AM at the Colonial Theatre. We can’t wait to see our stars shine! ✨

We’re so grateful to spend each week with such an incredible community 💙 Stay tuned for updates and don’t forget to check in for upcoming events and programs!

08/24/2025

🧩 All About Me: Because Every Story Matters
At The Bailey Center, we believe understanding a person is the first step to supporting them well. That’s why we’re excited to share our All About Me cards — a simple but powerful tool designed to help families share important information about their loved ones with special needs.

These cards allow you to highlight:

✨ Strengths and interests
✨ Communication preferences
✨ Triggers and calming strategies
✨ Safety considerations
✨ Favorite people, routines, and comforts

Whether you’re introducing your child to a new therapist, staff member, or community setting, these cards make it easier to say:
“Here’s what makes my child feel safe, seen, and supported.”
💙 Every individual deserves to be understood beyond their diagnosis. These cards help center their voice — even if they don’t use words to express it.
You can download or pick up a card from the center to fill out. Keep one in your child’s backpack, give a copy to teachers or providers, or keep it on hand for transitions and appointments.
Because inclusion begins with understanding.

08/22/2025

🎣 Heroes on the Hook – Fishing Event Tomorrow! 🎣
We can’t wait to see everyone tomorrow, Saturday, from 9–11 AM at Southside Virginia Community College for our Heroes on the Hook Fishing Event!

🚗 Entrance & Parking: Please use the main entrance at Southside. Volunteers and officers will be on-site to help guide you to parking and down to the pond. If you’re unable to walk to the pond, arrangements can be made to pull closer—officers will assist.

🪑 What to Bring: We encourage you to bring a chair for comfort. If you’d like to bring your own fishing rod, feel free—but don’t worry, we’ll have rods, lures, and worms available!

💙 Who’s Invited: This is a free community event for our special-needs families and communities in Brunswick, Mecklenburg, and surrounding areas. There’s still time to register—but if your plans change last-minute, please just come join us. You’re welcome either way!

🐟 Let’s cast a line, make memories, and build connections together with our amazing law enforcement partners. We’ll see you at the pond!

08/22/2025

Our keynote speaker is Kelli Sandman-Hurley, Ed.D., founder of the Dyslexia Training Institute, author, and national advocate for dyslexia education. (see details below)