As people check end-of-the year giving off their list, Pam Stickler hopes they will remember those living in their community with disabilities.
Stickler, who heads an organization called The RECing Crew, which provides recreational and leisure programs for children and adults with special needs, has a big wish list — about $1.3 million to create a Miracle League field at North Augusta’s Riverview Park.
“We have over $300,000 pledged so far,” said Stickler, who added others have offered in-kind support that will reduce the dollar amount needed for the project.
Approved by North Augusta City Council in June, the Miracle League field, constructed out of special materials to enable those in wheelchairs to use the surface, will be located on one the group already uses for its recreational programs, she said.
Started nearly 20 years ago, The RECing Crew has adaptive baseball, basketball and bowling programs among its athletic offerings. Plans for the space, which is near the Riverview Park entrance close to San Salvador Drive, call for a multi-purpose field that can be divided into two baseball fields, as well as a pavilion with restrooms, a grandstand with shade rails and handicapped accessible parking.
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Stickler can envision her organization using the pavilion and outdoor space for gatherings and other activities.
And she can not only see her program participants involved, but she can also see it being used by others in the community such as the school system and for Special Olympics programs as well.
Stickler said she hopes construction might begin by fall 2022 and the field be ready for use in spring 2023.
The Miracle League started in Conyers, Ga. with the first field constructed in 2000. More than 300 Miracle Leagues exists and more than 200,000 children and adults have participated in Miracle Leagues, according to the Miracle League website.
Not only does The RECing Crew offer athletic programs, but it has art, dance and music as well as social events.
A website is in progress at northaugustamiracleleague.com. Donations can be made to The RECing Crew, 516 Georgia Ave. North Augusta, S.C. 29841. To learn more about The RECing Crew, visit therecingcrew.com.
Charmain Z. Brackett is the Features Editor for The Augusta Press. Reach her at charmain@theaugustapress.com
