Program Information

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!  

Fridays, September 18- November 13 (No Session 10/23)
Ages: 10-15
Time: 6 - 6:45 pm
Location: Recreation Center (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $100 Scholarships Available
Register Online

Saturdays, September 19- November 14 (No session 10/24)
Ages: 6-12
Time: 10:15- 11am
Location: Recreation Center (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $100 Scholarships Available
Register Online

Baseball 
The OU 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 eligible to register/pay for this program and should complete a separate registration.  Limited Scholarships Available for autistic participants.

Wednesdays, September 16- October 21
Ages:  8+
Time: 5- 6pm
Location: OU Baseball Field 
Cost: $100 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! 

Mondays, September 14 - November 2
Ages: 7-13  Time: 6:15- 7:00pm
Location: Pawley Hall (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $175 Scholarships Available
Register Online

OUCARES Athletic Club
Join us for our adaptive fitness program that makes exercise accessible, engaging, and inclusive. This program is dedicated to empowering individuals through exercise by incorporating stretching and flexibility, partner-based exercises, and team activities to promote physical fitness, social connection, and personal growth. Each week features a different theme, sparking imagination while keeping activities fresh and engaging.

Thursdays, September 17- November 5
Ages: 6 - 9    Time: 5:00- 6:00pm
Ages: 10 - 14   Time: 6:15pm - 7:15pm
Location: Recreation Center (Oakland University Campus) 
Cost: $250  Scholarships Available
Register Online

SNAG Golf
Starting New At Golf (SNAG) is simplified golf, allowing full shots, pitching, chipping, and putting using modified equipment.

Mondays, August 24- October 12 (No session 9/7 & 9/28)
Ages: 8+
Time: 6:00- 7:00 pm
Location: Oakland University Golf Course Driving Range
Cost: $140 Scholarships Available
Register Online

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!

Saturdays, September 19- November 14 (No 10/24)
Ages: 4-9
Time: 11:15-12am 
Location: Recreation Center (Oakland University Campus) 
Cost: $100 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!  

Fridays, September 18- November 13 (No session 10/23)
Ages: 10-15 Time: 6 - 6:45 pm 
Ages: 16+  Time: 7- 7:45 pm
Location: Recreation Center (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $100 Scholarships Available
Register Online

Saturdays, September 19- November 14 (No session 10/24)
Ages: 6-12
Time: 10:15- 11am
Location: Recreation Center (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $100 Scholarships Available
Register Online

Baseball 
The OU 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 eligible to register/pay for this program and should complete a separate registration.  Limited Scholarships Available for autistic participants.

Wednesdays, September 16 - October 21
Ages:  8+
Time: 5- 6pm
Location: OU Baseball Field 
Cost: $100 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! 

Mondays, September 14- November 2
Ages: 7-13  Time: 6:15-7:00pm
Ages: 14+   Time: 7:15-8:00pm
Location: Pawley Hall (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $175 Scholarships Available
Register Online

Kitchen Confidence: The Basics
Join the Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services (OUCARES) at the Auburn Hills Community Center for a fun, hands-on cooking program designed for absolute beginners! No prior kitchen experience is needed. We'll build confidence by teaching very basic kitchen skills, safety, and teamwork. Each week, participants will follow easy, step-by-step, no-heat recipes to create delicious snacks like fruit salad, no-bake cookies, and trail mix. They'll practice essential skills such as knife safety, measuring ingredients, and keeping a clean workspace. This is the perfect opportunity to learn and grow your confidence in the kitchen! Please note, this class will not involve using the stove, oven, or microwave.

Wednesdays, September 16- November 4
Ages: 14+  Time: 5:30-6:30pm
Location: Auburn Hills Community Center (3350 E Seyburn Dr, Auburn Hills, MI 48326)
Cost: $250 Scholarships Available
Register Online

Kitchen Confidence: Mastering the Basics
Ready to take your cooking skills to the next level? Join the Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services (OUCARES) for this hands-on program at the Auburn Hills Community Center. We'll build on foundational skills by introducing kitchen prep tools and using the microwave and stovetop. Through fun, step-by-step recipes, participants will master essential techniques like reading a recipe, cutting ingredients, measuring, and mixing. Each week, we'll create and sample dishes like pasta salad, pancakes, and quesadillas. This is a great chance to expand your culinary abilities and grow your independence in the kitchen!

Wednesdays, September 16- November 4 
Ages: 14+  Time: 7:00-8:00pm
Location: Auburn Hills Community Center (3350 E Seyburn Dr, Auburn Hills, MI 48326)
Cost: $250 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 17- November 5
Ages: 14+ years
Time: 7 pm - 8 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: $175 Scholarships Available
Register Online

OUCARES Athletic Club
Join us for our adaptive fitness program that makes exercise accessible, engaging, and inclusive. This program is dedicated to empowering individuals through exercise by incorporating stretching and flexibility, partner-based exercises, and team activities to promote physical fitness, social connection, and personal growth. Each week features a different theme, sparking imagination while keeping activities fresh and engaging.

Thursdays, September 17- November 5
Ages: 10-14  Time: 6:15-7:15pm
Location: Recreation Center (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $250  Scholarships Available
Register Online

SNAG Golf
Starting New At Golf (SNAG) is simplified golf, allowing full shots, pitching, chipping, and putting using modified equipment.

Mondays, August 24- October 12 (No Session 9/7 & 9/28)
Ages: 8+
Time: 6:00- 7:00 pm
Location: Oakland University Golf Course Driving Range
Cost: $140 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 15, October 13, November 10
Ages: 18+ years
Time: 6 pm - 9 pm
Location: Oakland Center (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: No cost for this program

Artistic Expressions 
Join the Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services (OUCARES) at The Art Experience for a series of art classes. The Art Experience (TAE) is a community arts center located in downtown Pontiac, and all sessions will be held in their studio. TAE provides inclusive, accessible, and welcoming creative spaces for people of all abilities and backgrounds.  Each unique class features theme-based artmaking, led by Lisa Bennett, ATR (Registered Art Therapist). Activities include painting, creating prints, exploring self-portraits, and more! Some activities will be individual, and others will be collaborative among the group. Enjoy sessions that explore inner experiences while engaging in hands-on, accessible art projects within a supportive group setting. All materials are provided, and no prior art experience is required. 

Thursdays, September 17- November 5  
Ages: 18+ years
Time: 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Location: The Art Experience Studio (175 S Saginaw St #109, Pontiac, MI 48342)
Cost: $300 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! 

Fridays, September 18- November 13 (No 10/23)
Ages: 16+    Time: 7 - 7:45 pm
Location: Recreation Center (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $100 Scholarships Available
Register Online

Baseball 
The OU 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 eligible to register/pay for this program and should complete a separate registration.  Limited Scholarships Available for autistic participants.

Wednesdays, September 16- October 21
Ages:  8+
Time: 5- 6pm
Location: OU Baseball Field 
Cost: $100 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 19- November 7
Ages: 18+ years
Time: 10 am - 12 pm
Location: Classic Lanes (2145 Avon Industrial Dr., Rochester Hills)
Cost: $120 
Register Online

Troy Bowling
Mondays, September 14- November 2
Ages: 18+ years
Time: 6 - 8 pm
Location: Bowl One (1639 14 Mile Rd., Troy)
Cost: $120 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! 

Mondays, September 14- November 2
Ages: 14+   Time: 7:15-8:00pm
Location: Pawley Hall (Oakland University Campus)
Cost: $175 Scholarships Available
Register Online

Kitchen Confidence: The Basics
Join the Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services (OUCARES) at the Auburn Hills Community Center for a fun, hands-on cooking program designed for absolute beginners! No prior kitchen experience is needed. We'll build confidence by teaching very basic kitchen skills, safety, and teamwork. Each week, participants will follow easy, step-by-step, no-heat recipes to create delicious snacks like fruit salad, no-bake cookies, and trail mix. They'll practice essential skills such as knife safety, measuring ingredients, and keeping a clean workspace. This is the perfect opportunity to learn and grow your confidence in the kitchen! Please note, this class will not involve using the stove, oven, or microwave.

Wednesdays, September 16- November 4
Ages: 14+  Time: 5:30-6:30pm
Location: Auburn Hills Community Center (3350 E Seyburn Dr, Auburn Hills, MI 48326)
Cost: $250 Scholarships Available
Register Online

Kitchen Confidence: Mastering the Basics
Ready to take your cooking skills to the next level? Join the Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services (OUCARES) for this hands-on program at the Auburn Hills Community Center. We'll build on foundational skills by introducing kitchen prep tools and using the microwave and stovetop. Through fun, step-by-step recipes, participants will master essential techniques like reading a recipe, cutting ingredients, measuring, and mixing. Each week, we'll create and sample dishes like pasta salad, pancakes, and quesadillas. This is a great chance to expand your culinary abilities and grow your independence in the kitchen!

Wednesdays, September 16- November 4
Ages: 14+  Time: 7:00-8:00pm
Location: Auburn Hills Community Center (3350 E Seyburn Dr, Auburn Hills, MI 48326)
Cost: $250 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 autistic participants who possess conversational language skills.  Participants may require a parent or guardian present at each session to provide support with technology.

Thursdays, September 17- November 5
Ages: 14+ years
Time: 7 pm - 8 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: $175 Scholarships Available
Register Online

*NEW* Let’s Go On With The Show!
OUCARES is partnering with Open Spot for a Talent Show program! Do you have a hidden talent you don't want to keep hidden? Come join our talent show! For seven weeks we'll work in singing, acting, dancing... the works! And then we'll end with a production in the last week to wow family and friends.

Wednesdays, September 16- November 4
Ages: 18+
Time: 5:30-6:30pm
Location: Oakland University West Center & OU Oakland Center
Cost: $250 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 over Zoom. 

Mondays, September 21- November 16 (No Session 10/19)
Ages: 18+ years
Time: 6 - 7:30 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: $250 Scholarships Available
Register Online

SNAG Golf
Starting New At Golf (SNAG) is simplified golf, allowing full shots, pitching, chipping, and putting using modified equipment.

Mondays, August 24- October 12 (No 9/7 & 9/28)
Ages: 8+
Time: 6:00- 7:00 pm
Location: Oakland University Golf Course Driving Range
Cost: $140 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, September 17- November 5
Ages: 18+ years
Time: 6:00 - 7:00 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: $175 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 16- November 4
Ages: 18+ years
Time: 6 - 7 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: $150  Scholarships Available
Register Online

*NEW* Workplace Survival Skills for Autistic Adults 
Navigating the workplace can be challenging, especially when communication styles, social expectations, and sensory or environmental needs are not well understood. This program is designed to help Autistic adults understand their needs, communicate effectively, and advocate for themselves in workplace settings.

Developed and led by successful Autistic self-advocate, Katie Oswald, participants will explore workplace accommodations, learn how to identify supports that may help them succeed, and develop strategies for navigating social situations and misunderstandings at work. The group will also discuss common workplace scenarios, communication differences across neurotypes, and options available to them to navigate these challenges.  This program will meet twice a week. 

Tuesdays September 15 - November 10 and Thursdays, September 17 - November 5 (no 9/24)
Ages: 18+ years
Time: 1-2 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: $350  Scholarships Available
Register Online

Thank you for your interest in OUCARES Summer Camp!

All 2026 summer camp sessions are currently full, and our waitlists have reached capacity. We are no longer accepting applications for Summer 2026.

OUCARES summer camps provide structured, engaging experiences for children, teens, and adults with autism and related disabilities. Our programs focus on socialization, recreation, skill development, independence, and fun in a supportive environment on Oakland University's campus.

Camp sessions are generally held Monday–Friday from 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. during July, and scholarships are available for all programs.

To receive updates about Summer Camp 2027, including application announcements and registration information, please email [email protected] and ask to be added to our mailing list.

If you have questions about OUCARES programs, please contact us at [email protected].

We appreciate your interest and look forward to sharing information about future opportunities.