About TASK

TASK is a nonprofit 501(c)3, year-round instructional sports program that provides athletic and social opportunities to kids with special needs. The purpose of the program is to help build self-esteem and skills in children with special needs. Each athlete receives a team t-shirt and trophy upon completion of the sport.

TASK began in the summer of 1996 with a tee ball program involving twenty-six athletes with special physical and/or mental needs. Since then, we have evolved into a year-round sports program and currently offer a variety of sports to over 1,500 participants yearly. We offer activities in team sports, individual sports, social clubs and life skills.

Who We Are
TASK is run by a small staff (4 full time employees) and group of dedicated volunteers from a variety of backgrounds including classroom teachers, special education teachers, adaptive physical education teachers, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech/language pathologists, high school students, college students and parents.

With so much expertise in a variety of specialties, these volunteers can give the athletes a wide range of support to help them become successful. So far, hundreds of volunteers have contributed their unique talents and energy to make the TASK program a success.

Where We Play
In the beginning, TASK activities took place at various locations across South and West St. Louis County where we rented facilities on an as-needed basis. In February 2012, we achieved a major milestone when we purchased 11.5 acres in Fenton. Since that time, we have modified the building and grounds to meet our needs. Since 2012 we have added a lighted and irrigated soccer field, turf tee-ball field, grass softball field, a putting green, a fishing dock, a sensory room, a regulation sized basketball court, a regulation-sized volleyball court, two small basketball courts, two small volleyball courts, and elevated walking track, tripled the size of the kitchen and life skills lab.

Support for Parents
Having a child with special needs affects every member of the family. One of the most valuable aspects of TASK is the network of support it provides for the parents and siblings of children with special needs. Parents can discuss concerns, share ideas, and identify with other parents in similar or not-so-similar situations.