The Enid News and Eagle, Enid, OK

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November 9, 2008

Volunteers with special needs make items for Putt-Putt’s new store

By Tippi Rasp, Lifestyles Editor

A handful of volunteers and adults and children with special needs are reaping the rewards of their hard work as Enid’s newest business, The Second Story, gets set to open.

The Second Story, located in the building at 710 Overland Trail, opens Saturday and will offer unique books and gifts, including items made by adults with developmental disabilities. The store’s purpose is two-fold — to generate some income for 4RKids, the local non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of adults and children with special needs, and to create vocational opportunities for those with developmental disabilities.

Since the inception of 4RKids, the dream has been to create opportunities for this unique population.

“One of our dreams at 4RKids is about to become a reality!” said Pat Lentz, the organization’s publicity and marketing director.

Lentz said the group’s goal is to make everyone in northwest Oklahoma aware of the opportunities 4RKids provides for special needs children and adults and their families.

The store will be located in the building currently part of Putt-Putt Golf Course, 710 Overland Trail. The acquisition of Putt-Putt was the beginning of the group’s dream of creating opportunities for the special needs population.

“Our vision is to have a place based on their abilities,” said Lentz.

Lentz said a good portion of special needs adults lose their social contacts after they graduate from high school. 4RKids wants to provide work opportunities that will get them back into society, making bonds and forming friendships.

When the group purchased Putt-Putt, it immediately created first-time opportunities for special needs teens and adults in Enid. The business provides jobs in lawn maintenance, ticket sales and concessions.

Both Putt-Putt and The Second Story are made possible by 4RKids largest fundraiser, Walk 4RKids. 4RKids has given thousands in grants to local special education teachers, provided scholarships to camps for special needs students, brought concerts to Enid and support Enid Twisters adult Special Olympics team.

Walk 4RKids, typically held in early fall, offers the community a variety of family events, including games and food.

For more information on the organization, visit www.4rkids.com.

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