Leigh Curry is, like so many others, someone whose passion found her, not the other way around. After more than 20 years working in corporate human resources, she relocated with her husband and two sons to Peachtree City and began exploring new paths. Her journey included a range of experiences, from joining a direct-sales clothing company to stepping into volunteer leadership roles at her church and her children’s school, and even beginning a career in the mortgage industry. Along the way, she gained valuable insight into both herself and her community, developing skills in volunteer engagement, event management, and relationship-building. Eventually, she reached a crossroads - and that was when a member of the board from Southside Support reached out.
Initially founded as a Facebook group in 2011, Southside Support has grown far beyond its digital beginnings. What started as a simple online forum for parents of children with special needs to share challenges, celebrate milestones, and seek resources has evolved into a thriving, supportive network for families across South Metro Atlanta. Today, the organization connects caregivers, hosts inclusive community events, and provides opportunities for education, support, and belonging. In 2025 alone, Southside Support served approximately 8,000 individuals through a combination of in-person programs and online outreach.
For years, the role of executive director was filled by passionate parents of children with special needs. However, as their personal responsibilities grew, time became a limiting factor. That’s when Leigh received the call.
She admits that accepting the role had little to do with a lifelong passion or even a personal connection to the special needs community. While she knew she possessed relevant skills and a strong desire to make a meaningful impact locally, she also recognized that she had much to learn about the community she was being asked to serve. Despite feeling somewhat out of her depth, Leigh chose to trust the board’s confidence in her abilities. What she could not have anticipated was just how deeply the community would impact her in return.
Since joining the Southside Support team, Leigh says the experience has been transformative. “It’s made me realize I think I missed my calling,” she shares. In the years following her onboarding, she has not only strengthened the organization’s original mission but also expanded its reach and programming. With a renewed focus on connection, education, and inclusivity – especially in the wake of COVID-19 – programs have been thoughtfully redesigned to better meet the evolving needs of families.
Caregiver support groups have become more intentional and accessible, with offerings like Dad Support Groups at Line Creek Brewery, Moms’ Mornings Out, and both in-person and virtual group counseling sessions. Monthly game nights now provide social opportunities for teens and adults with special needs, while Camp Southside fills the summer with structured, engaging activities. Signature events such as Prom Possible, the Empowerment Summit, and The Ability Games continue to grow, each reinforcing the organization’s commitment to building a truly inclusive community.
For Leigh, Southside Support is nothing short of a “God thing.” As she explains, “I have just kind of fallen into something that I’m so passionate about, and that has blessed my life and brought so much joy into my life.” Through her leadership, the organization has become an even stronger lifeline for families who often feel unseen and unsupported, while the community itself has reignited her own sense of purpose.
For those interested in getting involved, Southside Support offers many ways to engage. Families seeking support can go to southsidesupport.org and explore the full calendar of programs and resources.