DALLAS — The Bachman Therapeutic Recreation Center has catered to people who are mentally, physically and emotionally disabled for more than 30 years. It's the only facility of its kind in Dallas.
"We play basketball all the time, swimming, weights, stuff like that," said Angela Lacy, one of the amateur athletes who takes advantage of the competitive sports options, fitness and health programs offered at Bachman Rec.
"This is where I first started playing wheelchair basketball, and I've enjoyed it ever since."
Because of major municipal budget cuts, the Bachman Recreation Center was on the chopping block; but thanks to their supporters crying out for help, the City of Dallas came up with the money last Thursday night to keep most of its programs intact.
"We like it a lot," Lacy said.
Special needs children and their parents recently packed a gymnasium to show North Texas how important this rec center is to them.
"The kids need to be out and be active," said parent Elaine Parham. "When you're in a wheelchair all day long, you don't burn nearly as many calories as you do when you're standing up and walking."
Because of the services they provide to people with disabilities of all ages, we name the Bachman Therapeutic Recreation Center today's Our Neighbor.
They are breathing a sigh of relief thanks to all their supporters who took the matter to City Hall.
"Because there's lots of people here like me," Lacy said.
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