RECing Crew a big hit with participants

Rosemary Bradley's only regret with The RECing Crew, a leisure and recreation organization for special-needs adults and children, is that she didn't involve her son, Michael, earlier.

//

"It's been wonderful. Everyone is so nice and welcoming," said Bradley, who learned about the program through Anne Comer, an adaptive physical education teacher in the Columbia County school system who works as a coach for many of The RECing Crew's programs.

Michael, 19, is a senior at Greenbrier High School and started in the program this year.

Pam Stickler started The RECing Crew in 2002 with one program -- a bowling league for special-needs adults. It's grown to include three additional programs.

More than 100 disabled children and adults participate in the activities, which include the bowling league, basketball in the fall and baseball in the spring, a social group, and a Jazzercise class.

Most events are held in North Augusta, but participants come from Richmond and Columbia counties in Georgia and Edgefield and Aiken counties in South Carolina, Stickler said.

Allison Meyer has been part of the organization for about five years.

"It's fun," said Meyer, 23.

Her mother, Susan Meyer, said being part of the organization has been good for her daughter.

"Allison has made good friends," she said.

Most of The RECing Crew programs are free or have minimal costs. An annual spring fundraiser called Sweet Celebrations helps to offset expenses.

In addition to the regular activities, there are special events throughout the year, such as a visit with Santa Claus at Christmas and a kickoff event at the beginning of the school year.

For information, call Stickler at (803) 279-8820 or visit www.therecingcrew.com.