For Henry County Therapeutic Recreation Coordinator Terry Nash, working with the local special-needs community is about making a positive impact on people’s lives.

  “I always wanted to work with the special needs population, from age 15,” she said. “I started working in Clayton County Therapeutic Division as a teenager and fell in love with it at a young age. Now I have a career where I can make a difference in the lives of others.”

  Nash, 51, of Hampton, began working at Henry County Parks and Recreation 13 years ago. She now coordinates a full-time recreation program for children and adults with special needs, including participation in the Special Olympics and wheelchair sports.

  In the process, she has strengthened her passion for those with special needs.

  “I worked in Valdosta, Ga., for 10 years as the therapeutic coordinator, and Special Olympics Georgia for three years before coming to Henry County,” said Nash. “I’m very thankful for my position and appreciate that Henry County has always recognized the importance of therapeutic recreation.”

  “It’s awesome to be able to go to work every day and make a profound impact on the lives of others,” added Nash. “We can actually see changes being made and it warms our hearts.”

  Henry County Special Olympics, founded in 1987, provides sports and athletics throughout the year for individuals with disabilities. Currently, more than 300 traditional and unified athletes take part in athletic events locally and statewide.

  Special Olympics athletes compete in sports including alpine skiing, aquatics, basketball, bocce ball, bowling, equestrian events, sailing, softball, floor hockey, tennis, table tennis, volleyball, kayaking and powerlifting.

  Nash said the perception of the special-needs community in Henry County has improved over the years.

  “I believe that more and more people are becoming aware of our program and the more they see our athletes in the community, people are getting to know who we are,” she said. “It’s important because parents need a safe outlet.”

  An essential component in the success of the Special Olympics in Henry County centers on the support it has received from the community. Nash said she is grateful for the efforts of local residents who volunteer their time for the program.

  “We rely on volunteers, fundraisers, and our community support to keep us going,” said Nash. “Our volunteers are second to none, and we appreciate all of their support and hard work over the years.”

  Nash also works closely with participants and directors at People First of Henry County, a nonprofit organization that organizes social events for the special-needs community.

  “We partner with People First to put on more social events for everyone in our community. Our partnership is awesome, and we do appreciate what People First has done in our community.”

  Nash added that she is currently helping to put together a Share the Joy event, scheduled for April 13, benefiting athletes with special-needs.

  “We hold the Share the Joy fundraiser twice a year to raise money for our athletes to attend competitions year-round,” she said. “We always need volunteers and support from the community.”

  Nash is in the beginning stages of putting together a video for Facebook, geared toward special-needs residents and their parents. The purpose of the endeavor, she said, is to gain support for county residents and athletes with special needs.   For more information or to make a donation to the Special Olympics in Henry County, call 770-288-7290.