Drop-In Wednesdays

Our Drop-In Wednesdays program offers adults (18+) with autism and intellectual or developmental disabilities the opportunity to join our Success Through Structure students for community outings, recreational activities, baking, and other meaningful experiences.

Participants can explore new interests, build friendships, practice social and community skills, and enjoy engaging activities in a structured, supportive environment — without committing to enrollment in our full three-day academy program.

Activities vary throughout the month and may include:

• Community outings to libraries, farms, parks, and other local destinations
• Swimming and recreational activities
• Cooking, baking, and following recipes
• Arts, crafts, and creative activities
• Social interaction and group learning
• Community safety and awareness
• Independent living skills and practical learning experiences
• Physical activity and community walks

Our monthly activity calendar is posted in advance, allowing participants and caregivers to select the Wednesdays that interest them.

Drop-In Wednesdays is available on a limited basis while spaces remain within our regular Success Through Structure program, which has a maximum enrollment of eight students.

Spaces are subject to program capacity, staffing availability, and individual support needs.

All new participants begin with a meet-and-greet to discuss their strengths, interests, communication styles, support needs, routines, preferences, and goals.

This process helps determine whether Drop-In Wednesdays is an appropriate fit and whether White Pines Academy can provide the supports necessary for safe and meaningful participation.

White Pines Academy values autonomy, personal choice, and self-determination. We believe that meaningful participation begins with an individual's interest in attending and engaging in activities.

Participants should demonstrate an interest in the program and a willingness to participate - with appropriate encouragement, accommodations, and individualized support provided as needed.

We recognize that some individuals may require additional time, reassurance, or support when adjusting to new environments and experiences. Each participant's preferences, communication style, and expressed choices are considered throughout the intake process and during programming.

Participants must be able to participate safely in programming with the supports and accommodations available.

White Pines Academy is not equipped to support behaviours involving extreme physical aggression or highly disruptive behaviours that present significant safety concerns and cannot be safely managed within the program.

Individualized behaviour support strategies or plans may be developed when appropriate to support successful participation.

Program suitability is assessed individually, considering behavioural support needs, reasonable accommodations, group dynamics, staffing resources, and the safety and well-being of participants and staff.

Explore our upcoming Wednesday outings and activities! Our monthly calendars are posted in advance so participants and caregivers can choose the activities that interest them.

Please see our October and November activity calendars below.