Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? You’re not alone. Learn more about us by checking out these frequently asked questions.
What is the Recreation Council of Greater St. Louis?
The Recreation Council of Greater St. Louis was incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in 1983. We work to ensure that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are aware of and have opportunities to engage in leisure and recreation programs of their choice. Our staff believe that recreation and leisure opportunities are for everyone. Let us help you explore your options.
What is your service area and who do you serve?
Currently, we serve St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County residents of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This includes individuals with autism, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, head injuries (prior to age 22), intellectual disabilities and epilepsy.
Individuals with other types of disabilities may qualify for our scholarship funds to attend programs of their choice. Contact us at (314) 726-6044 to discuss this option.
What services does the Recreation Council provide?
We are the one place individuals may call in order to find out about the many leisure opportunities available to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We provide individualized information and referral services; quarterly newsletters that highlight seasonal leisure programs and activities; a Guide to Leisure Services that highlights various leisure opportunities in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County and a Summer Opportunities Guide that highlights day and overnight camps, travel programs, teen programs, sports and recreation programs and much more. If you prefer to meet directly with one of our Coordinators to discuss your or your loved one’s leisure options, we can meet with you at one of our offices. Please call to schedule this appointment.
The most popular programs that we administer are our voucher programs. The voucher programs act as a funding mechanism that assists individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities with attending a leisure and recreation program of their choice and/or obtain recreation supports needed in order to participate in a program. These funds are available to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who reside in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County.
How can I obtain information on the various specialized and inclusive programs in our community?
You can either call our staff directly to discuss your interests and support needs or search for programs and activities through our website. We are always available to you to discuss your interests and take pride in acquainting ourselves with the various programs in the St. Louis and St. Charles County areas. We also research your options to provide you with choices so you can make informed decisions when accessing recreation programs and activities.
How do I qualify for a Voucher Program?
Individuals must live in one of our three county service areas and have an intellectual or developmental disability. Certain ages or other requirements may apply depending on the actual voucher program and/or what county you reside in. All individuals who apply for our voucher programs must submit an eligibility verification form typically completed by a service coordinator or a physician or through a SSD IEP. Again, verification processes vary by county. Check with the recreation coordinator in your county for more information.
How do I apply for a voucher program?
You can find our voucher applications on our website or contact our office in the county where you reside and request that an application be mailed to you directly.
Where are your offices located?
Our administrative office, which houses our St. Louis City and St. Louis County offices, is located at 11 Worthington Access Drive, Suite E, Maryland Heights, Missouri 63043. The Recreation Council’s St. Charles County office is located at 60 Gailwood Drive, Suite C, St. Peters, Missouri 63376.
How are you funded?
Our programs and services are funded in St. Louis County by the Productive Living Board for St. Louis Citizens with Developmental Disabilities. In St. Louis City, our programs and services are funded by the Saint Louis Office for Developmental Disabilities Resources. In St. Charles County, our programs and services are funded by the Developmental Disabilities Resource Board of St. Charles County. We also obtain needed funding through fundraising efforts, contributions and donations. If you would like to make a donation, please contact us at (314) 726-6044 or donate through our website.
Ready to get started?
Check out our program directory for our comprehensive list of activities to find the leisure and recreation activities that best meet your interests and support needs.
