TASK community event builds momentum in Tuscola, eyes expansion across region
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By Ben Crane
A bustling Saturday at Hometown Grounds served as the backdrop for a growing local initiative aimed at mentoring and empowering youth. Trust Appreciation Support through Kindness — more commonly known as TASK — hosted a community event on March 29 that drew an enthusiastic crowd, sparked interest among potential mentors, and laid the groundwork for future expansion.
Tuscola Mayor Dan Kleiss proclaimed Saturday “Mentor Day.” Cody Shelmadine, assistant director of TASK, said the event marked an important milestone in raising awareness and community engagement.
“We had eight people sign up to be mentors, which is awesome,” Shelmadine said. “But even beyond that, a lot of folks just came by, learned what TASK is about, and got involved in the conversation. It really helped us get the name out there.”
Though an official attendance count wasn’t taken, Shelmadine estimated that at one point there were roughly 40 children participating in various activities inside and outside the coffee shop. Even Hometown Grounds’ regulars became curious, asking questions about the program and its goals.
TASK, which pairs local mentors with young people in need of guidance and support, has seen steady progress since its launch. Some mentor-mentee pairs are now meeting regularly outside school settings, grabbing meals together or participating in family-friendly events — always in a way that ensures comfort and safety for all involved.
One mentor even brought their mentee to Saturday’s event, giving the child a chance to take part in activities like basketball and arts and crafts.
“We’re starting to see that connection take shape,” Shelmadine said. “It’s cool seeing everyone come together and support the kids in this way.”
The program’s ambitions don’t stop with local outings. TASK is currently collaborating with the University of Illinois Extension to create workshops that teach valuable life skills. Possible future activities include dog walks at the local animal shelter — managed by Jessi Young, with TASK chair James Young helping coordinate — and “Cooking 101” classes to be held at the coffee shop.
Another creative idea in the works is a “Handshake Scavenger Hunt,” where mentor-mentee pairs visit local businesses, take photos with owners, and earn prizes. Game nights featuring board games like Uno and community cooking workshops are also being discussed.
“Showing kids work ethic, how to connect with people, and how things work behind the scenes — that’s huge,” Shelmadine said. “Those community connections could be really beneficial for them down the road.”
The ultimate goal of TASK, Shelmadine emphasized, is to be a source of encouragement for kids who may not feel they belong in traditional social circles like sports teams or school clubs. The program strives to offer friendship, mentorship, and a safe space to express themselves.
“In small towns, it’s easy for some kids to feel left out,” he said. “We’ve had parents come in and say their kids feel like they don’t fit anywhere. This program gives them someone to talk to and lean on. That’s powerful.”
Shelmadine said the organization is already receiving interest from other communities and is working on expanding into areas like Villa Grove. TASK is also reaching out to homeschooling groups and broadening its search for mentors beyond Douglas County.
“We’ve got someone from Champaign who applied, and even someone from Shelbyville,” Shelmadine said. “As long as they can meet the commitment, we’re happy to welcome them in.”
As TASK continues to grow, its leaders remain focused on one key mission: making sure every child who needs a mentor has one.
“More kids, more mentors — that’s what we’re aiming for,” Shelmadine said. “And we’re just getting started.”