
CAMP AIDE & APPLICATION PROCESS
Application Guidelines for Receiving Aide Support
At The Orion Circle, we believe that every child deserves access to inclusive and joyful experiences, regardless of their support needs. To ensure that children who benefit from one-on-one assistance can fully participate, we provide aide support to eligible families through our inclusion mission.
Elibility Criteria
To qualify for aide support through The Orion Circle, families must meet all of the following criteria:
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Diagnosis or IEP/504 plan​​
The child must have a formal autism diagnosis OR documentation of neurodivergence (e.g., IEP, 504 Plan, letter from a provider)​
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​2. Demonstrated Need for Support
The child must require one-on-one support to participate safely and meaningfully in a neurotypical or mixed-ability setting.
​3. Program Participation
The support must be requested for a camp, class, or event approved by The Orion Circle as an inclusive partner or accessible location.
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4. Caregiver Commitment
Families must commit to:
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Communicating clearly with the aide and program staff.
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Following agreed-upon behavior/ safety plans
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Providing updates or feedback after the session.
What the Application Includes
You will be asked to provide:
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Basic information about your child.
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Medical or educational documentation (upload or summary).
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Preferred dates or type of program.
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Details about your child's needs (sensory, communication, behavior, mobility, etc.)
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Any existing support strategies that work well.
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Timeline & Review Process
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Application must be submitted at least 3 weeks prior to the start date of the program.
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All applications are reviewed by out Inclusion Services Team within 7-10 business days.
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Families will be notified by email with:
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Approval status
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Next steps
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Assigned aide (if applicable)
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Aide Support May Include:
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One-on-one aide at camp or events.
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Sensory or communication support tools.
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Shadowing during transitions or group activities.
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Collaboration with program staff to ensure inclusion.
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Renewal & Reapplication
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Support is granted on a session-by-session basis.
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Families must reapply for aide support for each new program, camp, or seasonal cycle.
Important Notes
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The Orion Circle provides aide support free of charge to qualifying families, funded by our generous donors and community partners.
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If we cannot fulfill a request due to staffing or budget limitations, we will offer alternative solutions when possible.
Renewal & Reapplication
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Support is granted on a session-by-session basis.
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Families must reapply for aide support for each new program, camp, or seasonal cycle.
How to Apply
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Email: info@theorioncircle.org
"We see brilliance in every child and we're here to help them shine."​
Let us walk alongside you. You are not alone.