Page 9 - Annual Report 2020-2021

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WHAT WE DO

CANOPY ADULT PROGRAM MISSION
The Canopy Adult Program is committed to innovation and excellence in providing
vocational, educational, and life skills training and support for adults with autism.

CANOPY ADULT PROGRAM VISION
In partnership with Rich Harvest Farms, Giant Steps provides the model for a re-imagined
community that serves adults with autism, offering them hope for safe, fulfilled, and
happy lives. The Canopy model offers lifelong age-appropriate vocational and social-
emotional learning opportunities. Our vision is to provide this underserved population
with individual programming that engages the strengths and interests of each participant
while offering meaningful opportunities to interact with the broader community.
The Canopy Adult Program began in May 2012 as a response to the growing needs of
the adult autism population in the Chicagoland area.

G OAL STATEMENTS
The goals of the Canopy Adult Program focus on four areas:
• To provide individualized programming that recognizes the strengths and interests
of each participant
• To provide relevant life skills, physical activities, leisure experiences and vocational
training to prepare our participants for adulthood

• To provide programs, activities, and community outing that offer meaningful
opportunities to interact and practice life and vocational skill discussed during
Content Learning Sessions

• To supporting participants in lifelong learning and engagement.

Participants in the Canopy Adult Program range in age from 22 years up through their
mid-forties; the program is designed to recognize the needs of adults in this age bracket
and adapt to changing conditions as they transition into middle age.
GENERAL OVERVIEW
Canopy Adult Programs run Monday - Friday from 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. in the Sugar
Grove facility, with transportation options provided to and from the Lisle location and
back. For those taking part in the transportation options, the program day extends to
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., pending availability of seating and the ability of the individual to
ride safely according to the Caravan Policies.

Canopy Adult Program operates on a year-round calendar, with each program year
beginning in mid-August and running through the end of July. There are scheduled
breaks for federal holidays, mid-year breaks, and in-service days for staff.
Canopy has open enrollment throughout the year as the program has availability
(openings) and as participants are looking for services.

Enrollment is available for 3-5 days of attendance per week. However, attendance
must be consistent each week (attending the same day of the week from week to
week). Changes to this schedule can be made at the start of each enrollment year or
as needed on a case-by-case basis.

CANOPY ADULT PROGRAM LOCATION
264 Main Street, Sugar Grove, IL 60554

ANNUAL REPORT - 2020/21