The Brunswick County Parks & Recreation Department offers a number of programs especially for persons with special needs -- physical or mental disabilities. The programs offer fun, fellowship, and fitness.

• Year round program that offers once a month excursions for exceptional children in Brunswick County schools.
• Teachers need to contact the Special Populations Coordinator to enroll their classes at any time throughout the year.
• Activities consist of swimming, tennis lessons, therapeutic horseback riding, beach trips, adventure and recreational day trips, and craft activities.
• Programs are used to increase strength and mobility, develop coordination, work on listening and movement, build self esteem, promote community involvement, etc..
• Most fees are paid by Parks and Recreation.

Club R.E.C. (Recreation+Education+Culture) meets twice a week, each month, either at the Lockwood Folly Community Building, Town Creek or at a designated activity center. The Club R.E.C. is open to Brunswick County residents who have a disability and live in a group home. A yearly schedule is sent to group homes located in the county. Group homes register by arriving at the events.. Activities and events include the following:

• Crafts, Games, Socials
• Special Events: Often, for these special events, a guest speaker is invited to give a presenation to participants.
• Movie Night
• Community Trips

See Brunswick County Special Olympics web page for information.

A cultural festival available to any EC classroom in the county. The event consists of entertainers, artists, and performers from across the state and surrounding areas, such as dancers, magicians, potters, martial artists and activities, such as African drumming, crafts, beading, karaoke, and more. The event is designed to promote art and cultural awareness among students, as well as provide and social and educational interaction. Different themes are implemented yearly, such as arts from around the world, Mardi Gras, American Art, etc. Festival is held annually, in February.

2006 Very Special Arts Festival
Date: Thursday, February 16, 2006
Location: Ft Caswell Baptist Assembly, Oak Island, NC

CAMP CONNECT
Dates: June 19-23, 2006 and July 17-21. 2006.
Location: drop off at government complex (Building M)
Time: 8:30-4:30

Description: A free summer camp for children, ages 7-13, with ADD or ADHD to connect with each other and their community. Camp lasts 1 week and consists of engagement in activities, including swimming, trips to area attractions, skating, beach trips, and more. Participants must be able to respond to simple verbal prompts and have self care skills.