Beginning June 6, McMinnville Enrichment Center will be opening their doors on Tuesdays and Thursdays to special needs individuals and their caregivers from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. These time frames are for those who have special needs to come in and enjoy arts and crafts, games, movies and an assortment of other activities. This will continue for all of June and July. 

Holly McBride, co-founder and president of McMinnville Special Games, stated that she is very excited to open up the McMinnville Enrichment Center this summer. “Special needs individuals of all ages and their caregivers are encouraged to join us absolutely free of charge,” said McBride.

“We will be doing arts, crafts, playing games, indoor and outdoor activities, movies, story times, a little gardening and so many more activities on a daily basis,” she said. She also stated that snacks and drinks will be available. McBride also noted that donations are appreciated but not expected, and is more than happy to provide the service for free to the special needs community. 

Chasity Cooper has been hired as the activity director for the service, and will be at the center on the scheduled days. “We are very excited to have her on board. She has a background in special education and she has so many awesome ideas for activities that our special guys and gals can do,” said McBride. 

Registration is not necessary as it is a come-and-go as you please program. “We will not be accepting drop-offs, however,” stated McBride. “A guardian or caregiver must stay with the individual at all times, but there are plenty of activities to keep everyone busy for hours.” 

McBride said this is a soft-open for McMinnville Special Games, and hopes this program will lead to the center being open on a more consistent basis. “The special needs community needs these events and activities and we are thrilled to provide them,” McBride said. 

McMinnville Enrichment Center is located at 225 Garfield Street.