Embers Low-Cost Inclusion Summer Camp

Bridging the gap — one summer at a time.

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Each summer, the RISE partnerships comes to life through the Embers Low-Cost Inclusion Summer Camp — an accessible, structured summer program for children who are currently on the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) waitlist and not yet receiving consistent funded support.

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The camp is designed to reduce barriers to care while maintaining high clinical standards. It gives children opportunities to build skills, confidence, and connection — and gives families reliable, meaningful support during a critical period of waiting.

This program is made possible in part through the support of the Government of Canada via the Canada Summer Jobs program, which allows us to expand staffing capacity and reach more families in need.

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Locations

To keep groups small and support truly individualized programming, each partner location hosts a maximum of 6 children per site.

Here are the host sites for July-August 2026: 

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Durham Region - Mount Etna Child & Family Services (Oshawa & Bowmanville Locations)

West Toronto - Mount Etna Child & Family Services (1649 Dufferin Street W.)

Scarborough - Zalik Academy (3015 Kennedy Road)

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Location selection is made during the booking process.

 

Who This Camp Is For

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The Embers Summer Camp is specifically available to children who are:

• Currently on the OAP waitlist and not yet receiving consistent funded support

• Between Kindergarten and Grade 4

Families who qualify may also use Special Services at Home (SSAH) funding to support participation.

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To ensure appropriate peer grouping and targeted programming, the camp is offered in two age cohorts:

• Cohort 1: Kindergarten – Grade 1

• Cohort 2: Grades 2 – 4

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Each cohort is designed to reflect the developmental and social needs of the children within it, allowing for stronger peer connections and more intentional programming.

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How We Program

The camp operates at a 2:1 child-to-clinician ratio — a deliberate choice that balances individualized support with genuine opportunities for group interaction and peer connection.

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Programming is rooted in fun, evidence-based, play-based approaches and includes:

• Structured group activities

• Sensory experiences

• Communication opportunities

• Daily routines that support independence, flexibility, and social engagement

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Before You Enrol: The Meet & Greet

A mandatory meet and greet is required prior to enrolment. This conversation allows us to assess whether the group setting and 2:1 ratio are the right fit for your child — and to ensure every child can be safely and effectively supported.

If the camp is not determined to be an appropriate fit, families may be offered a refund (if determined prior to the start date) or alternative recommendations, including additional supports or program options.

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Want to talk through fit before booking? We welcome that conversation. 📞 1-877-708-1513

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Enrolment & Fees

• The camp requires a full-week commitment. Consistency is essential for both clinical planning and your child's experience.

• A $100 deposit is collected at the time of enrolment.

• The remaining balance is invoiced via QuickBooks following your intake call.

• Due to the subsidized nature of the program and staffing requirements, all confirmed registrations are final and non-refundable once payment has been made.