Seasonal Programs
Oakland University’s highest priority in providing exemplary academic, athletic and social programs for youth is protecting the health, safety and welfare of all participants. To achieve this critically important goal, carefully screened and highly trained personnel enforce protocols designed to ensure safe conduct and supportive interaction between youth and program leaders. To learn more, visit OU's OU's Youth Protection webpage.
If you are a new participant to OUCARES Programming, complete the Participant Information Form.
Indoor Soccer
Participants will learn to play the game of soccer through simple drills and small games. Goals include strengthening motor skills, following directions, cooperative interaction with peers, and having fun in a supportive environment. Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program! This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Saturdays, September 21 - October 26
Ages: 4-9
Time: 11:15 am - 12 pm
Location: Recreation Center Gym (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $100 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Story and Play Time *New*
This program is an interactive story time that includes books, songs, crafts, building and movement. Each day will focus on a different story and activity. Through story time, children will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of fun-filled experiences that promote interaction, communication, self-confidence and the development of motor skills. Powered by Lego Education. This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Saturdays, September 14 - November 2
Ages: 3-6
Time: 10 - 10:45 am
Location: Pawley Hall (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $175 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Baseball
The Oakland University Men's Baseball Team teaches participants the fundamentals of baseball through skill stations and modified games. Skills such as hitting, throwing and catching will be practiced each week, along with learning how to interact as a team player. Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program! This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Wednesdays, September 4 - October 9
Ages: 8+
Time: 5 - 6 pm
Location: OU Baseball Field (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $100 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Basketball
Participants will learn basic basketball skills such as dribbling, shooting, and team skills in a supportive environment. Developing these skills will involve listening, following directions, and interacting with teammates. Learn a fun sport while engaging in social interactions with peers. Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program! This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Fridays, September 20 - October 25
Ages: 10-15
Time: 6 - 6:45 pm
Saturdays, September 21 - October 26
Ages: 6-12 years
Time: 10:15 - 11 am
Location: Recreation Center Gym (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $100 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
D and D Style Game Club
Join us for our in-person D and D Style Game Club! This club is an exciting opportunity for preteens and teens on the autism spectrum to develop social skills while playing tabletop games. Club participants will use Critical Core, similar to Dungeons & Dragons, to enhance communication, foster social problem solving and cultivate leadership while learning to build an immersive world together! Participants do not need experience with Dungeons & Dragons to be a part of this club, but should have an interest in collaborative gaming. This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Wednesdays, September 25 - November 13
Ages: 10-14 years
Time: 5:30 - 6:30 pm
Location: Oakland University West Center
Cost: $250 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Gaming Club
Gaming club is an exciting opportunity for adolescents on the autism spectrum to develop social skills while playing MineCraft interactively. Participants will practice social skills and improve communication while learning to build a MineCraft world together! Parent or guardian must be available to help guide their focus and on-line activity during the class. Program requires access to a computer with Windows 10 and internet. Minecraft Java edition will not be compatible with the version being used for the club. Minecraft Bedrock edition will be needed. Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program!
Tuesdays, September 24 - November 12
Ages: 10-14
Time: 6:30 - 8 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: $250 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Individual Social Coaching
OUCARES is excited to now offer one-on-one individualized virtual coaching! Using the Charisma social coaching platform, trained social coaches will teach invaluable social skills to help understand social norms and learn to navigate social situations appropriately. Given the nature of the coaching, participants must be able to verbally communicate and independently use a computer (once instructions have been taught). Individual social coaching can occur based on your own schedule, and includes 10 one-hour sessions.
Registered participants will be contacted to schedule their individual days / times
Ages: 12+ years
Location: Virtual
Cost: $450
Indoor Soccer
Participants will learn to play the game of soccer through simple drills and small games. Goals include strengthening motor skills, following directions, cooperative interaction with peers, and having fun in a supportive environment. Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program! This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Saturdays, September 21 - October 26
Ages: 4-9
Time: 11:15 am - 12 pm
Location: Recreation Center Gym (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $100 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Judo
Instructed by Judo Steve, a 5th Level Black Belt with experience teaching individuals with ASD. Learn the basics of Judo while building confidence, self-discipline, listening skills, increase coordination and controlled movements. Judo is a fun way to exercise while also learning to follow directions and practice self-defense skills. Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program! This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Mondays, September 9 - October 14
Ages: 7-13
Time: 6:15 - 7:00 pm
Location: Pawley Hall (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $175 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
SNAG Golf
Starting New at Golf (SNAG) is simplified golf, allowing full shots, pitching, chipping and putting using modified equipment. Goals include improving motor skills, following directions and developing social skills. We will be using OU's Par 3 Golf Course throughout the program. Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program! This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Mondays, August 26 - October 7
Ages: 8+ years
Time: 6 - 7 pm
Location: OU Driving Range (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $140 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Story and Play Time *New*
This program is an interactive story time that includes books, songs, crafts, building and movement. Each day will focus on a different story and activity. Through story time, children will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of fun-filled experiences that promote interaction, communication, self-confidence and the development of motor skills. Powered by Lego Education. This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Two groups available: Thursdays, September 12 - October 31 or Saturdays, September 14 - November 2
Ages: 4-9
Time: 10 - 10:45 am
Location: Oakland University West Center
Cost: $175 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Teen Social Club
This program offers an opportunity for preteens and teens to meet new people and socialize while learning about different teen topics each week. The facilitator will use a variety of techniques to encourage positive social interactions through games, conversation, shared interests and activities as well as instructing participants in the formation of goals. This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Thursdays, September 12 - November 7
Ages: 12-14
Time: 5 - 6 pm
Location: Oakland University West Center
Cost: $175 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Yoga
All meetings will be in person at OU's West Campus and are taught by a certified yoga instructor. This fun movement program utilizes breathing exercises, yoga poses & movement activities to benefit the individual with ASD. The gross motor movements practiced are designed to positively impact fitness, self-regulation, and motor performance in a relaxing environment. A yoga mat will be provided or you can bring your own. Participants will benefit from having an adult on site with them to guide their focus and physical activity during the class. This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Tuesdays, September 17 - October 22
Ages: 10+ years
Time: 5 - 5:45 pm
Location: Oakland University West Center
Cost: $250 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
After Hours Adult Social
This is a social group for adults on the Autism spectrum and related challenges of all abilities. If one-on-one assistance is needed, parents/caregivers are required to provide support. Come join us for pizza, conversation, cards, games, and fun! No registration required, come when you are able.
Tuesdays, September 17, October 22 and November 12
Ages: 18+ years
Time: 6 - 9 pm
Location: Oakland Center (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: No cost for this program
Baseball
The Oakland University Men's Baseball Team teaches participants the fundamentals of baseball through skill stations and modified games. Skills such as hitting, throwing and catching will be practiced each week, along with learning how to interact as a team player. Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program! This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Wednesdays, September 4 - October 9
Ages: 8+
Time: 5 - 6 pm
Location: OU Baseball Field (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $100 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Basketball
Participants will learn basic basketball skills such as dribbling, shooting, and team skills in a supportive environment. Developing these skills will involve listening, following directions, and interacting with teammates. Learn a fun sport while engaging in social interactions with peers. Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program! This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Fridays, September 20 - October 25
Ages: 10-15 Time: 6 - 6:45 pm
Ages: 16+ Time: 7 - 7:45 pm
Location: Recreation Center Gym (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $100 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Bowling League
OUCARES' Bowling Leagues provide a fantastic opportunity for individuals with ASD to bowl in a supportive and controlled environment. Social participation is encouraged to help participants develop friendships in a community setting. Price includes 2 games/week, bowling ball & shoes, and a pizza party. The parent/caregiver will need to remain with the bowler if one on one assistance is required.
Oakland Bowling
Saturdays, September 7 - October 26
Ages: 18+ years
Time: 10 am - 12 pm
Location: Classic Lanes (2145 Avon Industrial Drive, Rochester Hills)
Cost: $120 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Troy Bowling
Mondays, September 9 - October 28
Ages: 18+ years
Time: 6 - 8 pm
Location: Bowl One (1639 14 Mile Road, Troy)
Cost: $120 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
D and D Style Game Club
Join us for our in-person D and D Style Game Club! This club is an exciting opportunity for preteens and teens on the autism spectrum to develop social skills while playing tabletop games. Club participants will use Critical Core, similar to Dungeons & Dragons, to enhance communication, foster social problem solving and cultivate leadership while learning to build an immersive world together! Participants do not need experience with Dungeons & Dragons to be a part of this club, but should have an interest in collaborative gaming. This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Wednesdays, September 25 - November 13
Ages: 10-14 years, Time: 5:30 - 6:30 pm, Location: Oakland University West Center
Ages: 15+ years, Time: 6:45 - 7:45 pm, Location: Virtual
Cost: $250 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Gaming Club
Gaming club is an exciting opportunity for adolescents on the autism spectrum to develop social skills while playing MineCraft interactively. Participants will practice social skills and improve communication while learning to build a MineCraft world together! Parent or guardian must be available to help guide their focus and on-line activity during the class. Program requires access to a computer with Windows 10 and internet. Minecraft Java edition will not be compatible with the version being used for the club. Minecraft Bedrock edition will be needed. Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program!
Tuesdays, September 24 - November 12
Ages: 10-14
Time: 6:30 - 8 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: $250 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Individual Social Coaching
OUCARES is excited to now offer one-on-one individualized virtual coaching! Using the Charisma social coaching platform, trained social coaches will teach invaluable social skills to help understand social norms and learn to navigate social situations appropriately. Given the nature of the coaching, participants must be able to verbally communicate and independently use a computer (once instructions have been taught). Individual social coaching can occur based on your own schedule, and includes 10 one-hour sessions.
Registered participants will be contacted to schedule their individual days/times
Ages: 12+ years
Location: Virtual
Cost: $450
Judo
Instructed by Judo Steve, a 5th Level Black Belt with experience teaching individuals with ASD. Learn the basics of Judo while building confidence, self-discipline, listening skills, increase coordination and controlled movements. Judo is a fun way to exercise while also learning to follow directions and practice self-defense skills. Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program! This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Mondays, September 9 - October 14
Ages: 7-13 Time: 6:15 - 7 pm
Ages 14+ Time: 7:15- 8 pm
Location: Pawley Hall (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $175 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Movie Club
This program offers participants the opportunity to watch a common movie at their leisure each week, and come together virtually to discuss it. Each week the facilitator will design activities around a theme of the week's movie while moderating a discussion of the movie encouraging social connections between participants. So grab your snack and join the meeting for some movie talk! This program is for participants with Autism who possess conversational language skills. Participants may require a parent or guardian present at each session to provide support with technology.
Thursdays, September 12 - November 7
Ages: 14+ years
Time: 7 - 8 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: $175 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Skills for Healthy Relationships
Developed and led by a successful Autistic Self-Advocate, participants will engage in an 8-week program to learn and practice skills that can be applied to all types of relationships, including family, friends, romantic partners, acquaintances, and colleagues. This course is designed to promote self-advocacy and self-determination for autistic adults. The class will allow participants to identify skills they would like to improve and provide a safe space to think about how to self-advocate in their everyday lives. The goal of this program is for participants to gain confidence in their ability to self-advocate in everyday situations. Having access to a computer will be necessary to attend this class as it is conducted virtually. OUCARES is partnering with Full Spectrum Agency for Autistic Adults to run this program.
Mondays, September 9 - November 4
Ages: 18+ years
Time: 6 - 7:30 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: $250 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
SNAG Golf
Starting New at Golf (SNAG) is simplified golf, allowing full shots, pitching, chipping and putting using modified equipment. Goals include improving motor skills, following directions and developing social skills. We will be using OU's Par 3 Golf Course throughout the program. Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program! This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Mondays, August 26 - October 7
Ages: 8+ years
Time: 6 - 7 pm
Location: OU Driving Range (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $140 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Social Connections for Adults
This program offers adults on the Autism spectrum an opportunity to meet new people and socialize while learning about relevant topics each week. The facilitator will address important issues such as making and maintaining relationships, workplace etiquette, social media and internet safety, community interactions, and other timely topics.
Thursdays, August 29 - October 17
Ages: 18+ years
Time: 6:00 - 7:00 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: $175 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Teen Social Club
This program offers an opportunity for preteens and teens to meet new people and socialize while learning about different teen topics each week. The facilitator will use a variety of techniques to encourage positive social interactions through games, conversation, shared interests and activities as well as instructing participants in the formation of goals. This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Thursdays, September 12 - November 17
Ages: 12-14 Time: 5 - 6 pm
Ages: 15-18 Time: 6:15 - 7:15 pm
Location: Oakland University West Center
Cost: $175 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Uniquely Me: Women on the Spectrum Connect
The facilitator will lead discussions on relevant women's topics including finding and keeping relationships, employment challenges, daily sensory issues, independence, and embracing life on the spectrum. This program is for adult women with Autism who possess conversational language skills.
Wednesdays, September 11 - October 30
Ages: 18+ years
Time: 6 - 7 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: $150 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Yoga
All meetings will be in person at OU's West Campus and are taught by a certified yoga instructor. This fun movement program utilizes breathing exercises, yoga poses & movement activities to benefit the individual with ASD. The gross motor movements practiced are designed to positively impact fitness, self-regulation, and motor performance in a relaxing environment. A yoga mat will be provided or you can bring your own. Participants will benefit from having an adult on site with them to guide their focus and physical activity during the class. This program is made possible in part by the generous support from the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Tuesdays, September 17 - October 22
Ages: 10+ years
Time: 5 - 5:45 pm
Location: Oakland University West Center
Cost: $250 Limited Scholarships Available
Register Online
Oakland University Center for Autism Outreach
456 Pioneer Dr.
Rochester, MI 48309-4482
(location map)
(248) 370-2424
[email protected]
Oakland University Center for Autism Outreach