It Began With A Dream…Over 60 Years Ago!

In 2008, Recreation Unlimited celebrated its 50th anniversary as it continued the dream of Dick Ruff, who founded the organization in 1958 to provide recreational activities for people like himself with disabilities.   Soon after, Jimmy Crum, former sports director at NBC4 in Columbus, became a friend to Recreation Unlimited.  When Dick died in 1974, Jimmy and other community leaders ensured his dream would live on.

Recreation Unlimited Today

Recreation Unlimited typically serves approximately 2,800 individuals with disabilities and health concerns representing up to 14 physical and developmental disability groups from approximately 57 counties in Ohio and five surrounding states.  Recreation Unlimited is the largest provider in the state of Ohio serving individuals with disabilities in the area of sports, recreation and education with the most comprehensive and quality program offerings.

The year-round 195-acre, wheelchair accessible campus features a 10,850 sq. ft. semi-private residence hall, The Greif Retreat House, a 20,000 sq. ft. Life Center, three other major residence halls, two private guest cottages for retreats, multi-purpose lodge, creative center, dining hall, outdoor pavilion, health services center and nurses quarters, outpost camp site, administrative and support buildings.  All buildings are air conditioned. Outdoor sports facilities include an aquatic center, aquatic playground, boat house and accessible canoe launch, accessible archery shelter, track and field, tennis and sports court, accessible softball field, 25 ft. tree climb, two challenge courses and a 50 ft. Alpine Tower. The spacious cedar facilities interconnect with a comprehensive system of nature trails with observation points for viewing waterfowl and wildlife.  Over four miles of hard surfaced accessible trails are available.  A seven-acre lake, accessible stream trail, prairie, forest, natural amphitheater and shelters provide an ideal environment for nature programs and outdoor education activities.