Support OUCARES

Volunteering gives you an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the autism community and gain valuable skills. We have many ways to get involved, whether you want to help out as an organization or by yourself, with one of our ongoing recreational programs or just once at a special event. Being a volunteer with OUCARES is a fun, rewarding experience and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

Oakland University requires all individuals interested in volunteering for university-affiliated youth programs undergo a national background check prior to volunteering. This requirement is part of protocols established to ensure safe conduct and supportive interaction between youth and adults. To learn more, visit OU's Youth Protection webpage.

Apply Now!
If you're interested in volunteering with OUCARES, complete the OUCARES Volunteer Form. Once submitted, someone from OUCARES will contact you within two business days with next steps.

Testimonials
What will you get out of volunteering? Read the volunteer testimonials below to find out:

“My volunteer sessions with OUCARES were the highlight of my week! The participants and other volunteers were very welcoming and friendly and it’s very rewarding to be able to make a difference in the lives of the participants and their families!”
–Zain T. (Volunteer Fall 2024)

“I am a seasoned volunteer with several years experience and each year has offered me an immense feeling of personal satisfaction. I walk away feeling I have been blessed to offer my services and time.”
–Bev B. (Volunteer Fall 2024)

“OUCARES is so fun! I love meeting and having fun with everyone, all of the people are so nice and funny!.”
–Sophia L. (Volunteer Spring 2024)

“Being around and interacting with the participants has made me feel so grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a joyful and unique community.”
– Wisam B. (Volunteer Fall 2024)

The Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services (OUCARES) is proud to serve as the premier organization for autism community support in southeast Michigan. At OUCARES, our expert staff and volunteers create and deliver programming designed to improve the quality of life for the autism community while raising awareness and promoting inclusive practices throughout our society. More than 200 programs, events and support services are offered every year to provide a fun, inclusive environment.

• OUCARES provides programs, events, and support services to over 2,000 individuals a year
• OUCARES reaches over 6,000 individuals through the OUCARES Listserv
• OUCARES reaches over 15,000 individuals through social media
• OUCARES connects with families, community leaders, local and national businesses 

Event sponsorships, program sponsorships and family partnerships are available and customizable. Please connect with at [email protected] or (248) 370-2424. We're happy to discuss the available opportunities.

Thank You to our Sponsors 

• Ted Lindsay Foundation
• Pontiac Lodge No. 21
• Lillybrook Counseling Services
• Bette Salisbury Slowinski
• Inspire Autism
• Gordon Food Service

As of 2024, the US Centers for Disease Control report that at least one in every 36 children is living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Every year more families are impacted by autism and will seek out support services such as those provided at the Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services (OUCARES). Your donation today will help us continue to provide these services to the growing community.

Listed below are examples of how your contribution can make a difference:

• $25 assists OUCARES with providing free evening enrichments to the community 
• $50 helps to cover costs of technology and supplies to run camps & programs
• $175 pays for a scholarship for child, teen or adult to participate in a recreational program
• $250 provides a full scholarship for teen or adult to join a social club
• $500 gives a child the chance to attend summer camp with a scholarship

If interested, you can give now to OUCARES online.

Thank you for your commitment to the mission of the Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services (OUCARES)! Your time and effort are greatly appreciated as you move ahead in planning a fundraiser to support the Oakland University Center for Autism.

Any person(s) or group can plan and implement a third party fundraiser for OUCARES. Third party fundraisers allow people to come together to raise awareness and acceptance of Autism Spectrum Disorders as well as strive towards a common goal of improving quality of life for people impacted by Autism. You design and fund the event or activity, host it, and invite guests while making a huge difference in the lives of people impacted by Autism. Your third party event or activity can be as large or small as you like as long as a few guidelines are followed.

Examples of third party fundraisers include but are not limited to:

• Run/Walk Events
• Silent Auctions
• Dinner Parties
• Bake Sales
• Car Washes
• Restaurant Nights or Openings
• Garage Sales

Individuals or organizations interested in hosting a fundraiser and donating all or some of the net proceeds to OUCARES should first read the Third Party Fundraiser Guidelines and then complete the Third Party Fundraiser Application.

Thank you for your interest in supporting OUCARES. We deeply appreciate the commitment and investment of time and resources required to host a third party fundraiser.