IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING THE SUMMER CAMP SUBSIDY
The Chapter Leadership Council would like to bring to your attention some important information regarding the Summer Subsidy Program. In the past this program provided Autism Ontario London Chapter families’ money to compensate them for Summer Camp Programs of their choice in amounts up to $500. The funds dedicated to this program are obtained from the hard work of our chapter’s fundraising initiatives.
To be clear, our local chapter does not receive any government assistance or funding whatsoever to support any of our chapter programs or operational expenses. Our chapter and all the supports and programs we provide exist solely because of fundraising initiatives by our own chapter and through third party fundraising from our community. Our chapter works incredibly hard to raise these funds and support our membership.
Our Summer Subsidy Program was funded, initially, through proceeds raised through the Firefighters Gala. This gala raised approximately $26,000 each year that was specifically earmarked for the Summer Subsidy Program. Unfortunately, the Firefighters Association has not hosted their gala since 2006. As a result it was decided that the Summer Subsidy Program would be funded through our own chapter’s fundraising initiatives. Since that time, more than $50,000 has been raised and spent supporting the Summer Subsidy Program.
In these difficult economic times I cannot express enough how critical, now more than ever, our families support and participate in our fundraising initiatives. Our charity is not immune to the economic downturn.
Furthermore we recognize that our families need our support more than ever.
A great deal of discussion has gone into whether or not we can afford to continue the Summer Camp Subsidy. The CLC believes strongly that this is an important initiative and we have been struggling on how to continue the program.
We have decided that we need to return to hosting a large event to raise the funds. The amount of funds available for subsidy will depend solely on the amount raised at the event. We have decided to host a BX93 Video Dance Party on Friday May 29, 2009. We need the assistance of all our members to sell tickets and attend this event. We want to be sure that the event is sold out and is as successful as possible. All profits from the event will be used to support the Summer Subsidy Program. If this event is a success we project that we will be able to offer subsidy cheques in the range of $200 - $300 per child/person with Autism. If this event is not a success we will not be in a position to offer subsidy cheques.
Please Note Changes to the Guidelines for Summer Camp Subsidy Program 2009
• There is a limited amount of money to be distributed to our applicants. The amount of subsidy available will be determined by the amount of money raised at designated fundraising events and the number of applications received.
• Due to a high and increasing demand for these camp subsidies, it is important that your application be received by the deadline. An assessment will be made after all applications are received as to the amount of money that will be distributed on an individual basis. Your application must be received by June 15, 2009 in order to be considered. If you do not know your camp particulars, please send an estimate, and indicate this on your application.
• While the camp subsidy is not limited to camp expenses, there are certain things we cannot cover. These include, but are not limited to:
1. Respite programs,
2. Meals for campers or their support workers,
3. Clothing for camp,
4. Camp extras such as souvenir t-shirts. If you are not sure, please contact us for further information.
• What we will cover:
1. Cost of summer camp at a camp of your choice,
2. Cost of support worker,
3. Cost of alternate programs or activities if a structured summer camp program is not appropriate for your child. Please call the office if you are unsure.
• It is a requirement that you have volunteered in some capacity for Autism Ontario London within the subsidy year to be eligible for funding. Many volunteer opportunities are available. Please call the office for more details.
Volunteer Ideas:
• Together for Autism: Arrange and/or coordinate a school participation
• Organize a garage sale or car wash with proceeds going to the chapter
• Arrange for friends and family to participate in events
• Join or have someone in your family join Chapter Leadership Council
• Organize and/or coordinate guest speakers
• Volunteer in the AOL office
• Make or collect prizes for upcoming events (this can be done throughout the year)
• Arrange camp presentation
• Speaker Series presentation- volunteer or have someone you know volunteer the night of the presentation
• Rival Golf Tournament – obtain prizes, hole sponsors, golf foursomes, man a display booth, volunteer the day of tournament
• Cycle for Autism – assist with set up and tear down, obtain pledges, coordinate the kids event, obtain food, water and pop donations, assist at registration table, sponsorships
• Autism Awareness Month – man an information booth or other awareness activities
• Participate at a booth at other Autism Ontario London sponsored events
• Come up with an idea of your own and submit it
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS PLEASE
CONTACT THE OFFICE AT 519-433-3390
Click the icons below to download the application form or get more information about summer camps in London.
Summer Camp Subsidy Application form
Information about Summer Camps in London