REC equipment available for checkout

Thanks to the new REC program, MVNU students can no longer complain about having nothing to do in Mount Vernon.

The Recreational Equipment Checkout (REC) is a new program enabling students to check out outdoor and indoor recreational equipment for free.

Several items already are available, including three kayaks, a paddle board, two bikes, camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, pots, etc.), ENO hammocks, lawn games, and sporting equipment, such as basketballs, footballs, kickballs, and disc golf.

Some items, like the kayaks and paddle board, will only be available on a seasonal basis, but others can be used year round.

The program was initiated by Director of Campus Life Rochel Furniss.

Furniss said she wanted to offer students the opportunity to stay involved in their favorite outdoor activities – or try some new ones - during college.

“I think it is important for students to have the opportunity to do things together and build community” Furniss explained. “The location of our campus has so many great ways for students to do things outdoors, and I wanted to give students the opportunity to take full advantage of that.”

Students can check out equipment free of charge in the former SGA storage room located on the first floor of Hyson Campus Center. All students are required to sign a release form. Fines will be issued for equipment damaged upon return.

Some students have already taken advantage of the program to check out items used on a camping trip to the Smoky Mountains over fall break.

The REC room is open for checkouts Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 1-3 p.m. Students can also check out items at other times by contacting Jonah Rhymer at jonrhymer@mail.mvnu.edu.

For more information visit their Facebook page, MVNU REC.

Photos courtesy of Student life and MVNU REC.