Children party hearty Published Feb. 22, 2011 By 2nd Lt. Katie Batchelder 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Love was in the air Feb. 11 at the first Special Needs Valentine's Day party hosted by the Travis Special Needs Task Force at the Balfour Beatty Community Center. The Travis Special Needs Task Force is made up of parents, Youth Center leaders, Child Development Center leaders, Airman and Family Readiness Center personnel, Family Advocacy, Balfour Beatty Lifeworks, a Health and Wellness Center representative, retirees and active duty service members. The task force provided special needs children and their siblings with a decorative Valentine's cake, pizza, tables topped with pink and red heart-shaped candy and a Charlie Brown Valentine's Day episode. The children also enjoyed arts and crafts activities and exchanged valentines with friends. "The military special needs community is the most amazing group of people I've ever encountered," said Susan Tonarelli, task force coordinator. "Their commitment to their exceptional family member is inspiring, and they are making a true difference in the lives of those who are fortunate enough to meet them." The Special Needs Task Force has existed for more than four years. Its first events included a special needs holiday dinner and a summer carnival. "The group has grown substantially and has proven to be an invaluable support to the families of special needs children," Ms. Tonarelli said. For more information about the Special Needs Task Force or to become a volunteer, contact the AFRC at 424-2486.