Canopy Program Details
Participant Support
Canopy is structured to support a 4:1 participant to staff ratio. Understanding the complex needs of individuals with autism, and knowing that each day can look different, Canopy is unique in its flexibility for coverage:
- Ability to have more support when participants require
- Ability to have less staff presence when individuals are able to demonstrate increased independence
- Ongoing assessment with consultation of family and caregiver input
- Each participant has two focus areas (goals) for the each program year that are focused on through activities and individualized supports
Calendar, Cost, and Transportation:
- Canopy runs a Program Year that starts in mid-August through the end of July
- There is rolling admission throughout the year for new participants as we have openings in our program
- Canopy is a private pay program at the cost of $90 per day
- Participants may attend 1 – 5 days per week
- The day runs from 9:30 – 2:30, Monday through Friday
- Participants may utilize our Caravan service with drop off and pick up in Lisle for a one time additional fee, space and ridership qualifications, pending
- Most often participants are dropped off and picked up directly at the Canopy program by parents, caregivers, or PACE services
Community Involvement
One of our primary goals is to provide the opportunity for Canopy participants to engage with the local community. We believe that having a connection to the businesses and organizations in the local area is an important opportunity for our participants as well as for the members of the community.
Ways in which Canopy participants engage in the community:
- Vocational skills practice volunteering at a nearby food pantry
- Life skills development through weekly shopping outings
- Participation in a structured Cooking group at a local church
- Increasing physical health program by utilizing fitness equipment at our local community college
- Engagement in riding skills and grooming techniques with Christine’s Dream
Requirements for Canopy Admission:
Canopy primarily serves adults between the ages of 22 and up, with an option for transition-age students (18-22) to participate in a blended program. For students still enrolled in a public school transition program, the blended program offers the therapeutic support of the school program and adult services.
Canopy’s participant-to-staff ratio is 1:4. We can assist participants with daily toileting needs. Participants need to be able to feed themselves with assistance only when setting up their meals. Canopy staff can assist participants who require increased behavioral support but are limited within the 1:4 ratio to the level of behaviors we can manage. We aim to provide all participants a safe and productive environment throughout the day.
Program Administrator
