Page 3 - Annual Report Letter 21-22

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Giant Steps Annual Report 21 - 22 | info@mygiantsteps.org | www.mygiantsteps.org

Giant Steps Mission

Giant Steps is committed to providing individuals with autism spectrum disorders,
and their families, superior educational and therapeutic services focused on

improving the quality of daily life from early childhood through adulthood.

About Giant Steps Day School

Since our inception in 1996, Giant Steps has focused on serving the
autism community. As a leader in the field of autism, Giant Steps
provides quality education, therapeutic, and recreational programs
for Kindergarten through Transition (up to 22 years of age)
students, their families and the community. Giant Steps Day School
is designated as a therapeutic day school licensed and certified
by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) to exclusively serve
students with a primary diagnosis of autism.

About Canopy Adult Program

The program began in May 2012 as a response to the growing needs of the adult autism population in
the Chicagoland area. The Canopy Adult Program serves young adults who have aged out of the public
school system at 22 years of age. The program’s goals include providing individualized programming that
recognizes the strengths and interests of each participant, providing meaningful opportunities to interact
with the broader community, and supporting participants in lifelong learning and engagement.

About Christine’s Dream

Equestrian Center

Christine’s Dream Equestrian Center at Rich Harvest Farms
recognized as a Professional Association of Therapeutic
Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) center. All program
activities are conducted under the instruction of a PATH
International-certified instructor. Therapeutic riding helps
individuals with physical, emotional, behavioral and cognitive
challenges by utilizing the movement of the horse to benefit the
rider. Additionally, Equine Assisted Activities provide opportunities
for experiential education, vocational skills development, and

About Rec Center

The Recreation Center offers after school focused programming and seasonal camps for children
and young adults with autism. The interactive activities are specially designed to keep participants
engaged during the school year after school hours and during school holiday breaks. The Rec Center’s
specialized programs offer opportunities for enjoyable age- appropriate community engagement and
social interaction in a safe and gently structured environment.