At the heart of the D&F Charity Trust’s 25th Anniversary Alabama Charity Golf Classic, there was a remarkable young man whose story captured the attention of everyone in attendance. Grayson Gladden, a graduate of Albertville High School, spoke as the event’s impact speaker, sharing how his journey has been transformed by the support of D&F Charity and the opportunities he’s been given through Auburn University’s EAGLES program. His story is one of perseverance, passion, and a community’s belief in his potential.
Grayson goes through life with an intellectual disability that has made his educational experience different from many of his Albertville classmates, but Grayson never let that stop him from dreaming big. When his high school friends began discussing college, Grayson wondered if that was something he could pursue, too. Encouraged by his desire for independence and a fulfilling life, Grayson and his family explored options and discovered Auburn University’s EAGLES program—a comprehensive transition program, or CTP, designed to help students with intellectual disabilities gain work and life skills in a supportive, inclusive college environment.
Marshall County’s First EAGLE
The EAGLES program, which stands for “Education to Accomplish Growth in Life Experiences for Success,” is explained by the university’s website as a non-degree pathway that focuses on “academic enrichment, personal and social skills, independent living skills, health and wellness, and integrated work experiences.” As life-changing as this program is, it comes with a significant financial cost—around $15,000 per semester, in addition to the standard college tuition rates and fees. Grayson’s family created a video of Grayson explaining his hopes and dreams, then reached out to their community for support. That’s where D&F Charity Trust stepped in.
D&F Charity regularly supports Auburn University’s College of Agriculture and the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, but they also step in for other philanthropic projects regularly. Pillars of D&F saw Grayson’s potential in his video and chose to help fund his journey, kicking off an irreplaceable and life-changing venture for young Gladden. Grayson’s admission into the EAGLES program made him Marshall County’s very first EAGLE. As Grayson has gone through a two year college career, his mother, Janna Gladden, shared in an interview that even though they continue to pay some out of pocket costs, community support “definitely relieves some of the burden.”
Balancing Independence, Work, and a Passion for Show Choir
Now in his fourth and final year at Auburn, Grayson is thriving both socially and professionally. He lives on campus with three college roommates, independently managing much of his daily life while gaining work experience and participating in campus life. As part of the EAGLES program, he’s had the opportunity to work at Bitty & Beau’s Coffee, where he makes drinks. He also assists the show choir teacher at Opelika High School and contributes backstage at the Gogue Performing Arts Center, helping with props, sets, and lights, or just wherever needed.
Grayson’s love for show choir, which started at Albertville High School, continues to be a central part of his life. As a member of Auburn University’s AU Singers, he’s performed across the United States and even in Germany. His passion for performing arts is evident in every step he takes, and it’s clear he’s not only gaining independence but also living out his dreams on stage. Grayson is one of the only EAGLES who does outside activities with no additional support, and he is thriving while doing so. He’s even learned to navigate the Auburn Transit system, allowing him to manage multiple jobs and activities on his own.
A Story of Strength and Gratitude
In his powerful impact speech at the 2024 D&F Charity Alabama Golf Classic, Grayson shared how much the EAGLES program has changed his life. He painted a vivid picture of his college experience, from scootering around campus and attending classes, to spending time at Foy Hall and soaking in the energy of Jordan-Hare Stadium during football games. “All of this,” Grayson said, “would not have been possible without [D&F’s] belief in me and my future.”
Grayson expressed his deep gratitude for the financial and emotional support he’s received from D&F Charity, saying, “There is not a way I would be able to follow [my] dream without some very special people in the D&F organization and their D&F Charity.” He spoke warmly of the chats, hugs, scholarships, and even text messages that have kept him encouraged along the way, calling the support a key part of his growth as a person and a student. Grayson ended his speech with a heartfelt acknowledgement to the Charity: “Because of you, I will have a better life. Speaking as Marshall County’s first EAGLE, I wanted to let you know that because of D&F Charity, those that [D&F] supports do not let our disabilities define us… Thank you so much for this honor today, it is truly a privilege to be an EAGLE, and to be a part of this great event with D&F Charity Trust.”
A Future Full of Promise
Grayson’s experience at Auburn has not just been about academics or work experience; it’s about living a full life, building relationships, and developing skills that will set him up for a bright future. After completing the program, Grayson will have an interview with Auburn City, where he hopes to secure a city job with proper benefits. His ultimate dream is to return to Albertville and share his love for show choir by becoming a teacher, helping students discover the same joy and fulfillment he’s found.
Grayson’s journey is a testament to what can be accomplished with perseverance, a strong support system, and the generosity of community members like those at D&F Charity Trust. As the impact speaker at this year’s Charity Golf Classic, he offered attendees a glimpse into how their contributions are changing lives in meaningful and lasting ways. Grayson’s story isn’t just about overcoming challenges—it’s about embracing life, chasing dreams, and finding joy every step of the way.
D&F Charity Trust is honored to be a part of Grayson’s journey and to help other individuals like him reach their full potential. His story is a powerful reminder that, with the right support, there are no limits to what can be achieved.
And as Grayson would say with beaming pride, War Eagle!
