How do I register for AutismUp classes?

Registration is required for all classes, and most events, and should be completed online. A Family Profile must be completed and on file in order to process a registration, and attend the first session of class, one week prior to the start of the class.

Registration is not complete until payment method is secured.

Steps to register:

Click here to register for classes. If you are enrolling in classes or are using our new registration system, CampSite, for the first time you will be required to create a new family account before enrolling in any classes/programs.

Notes:

• You will receive confirmation that your registration request was received. Your registration will then be placed in queue while we process your registration.

• You will then receive an update email with the results of your registration request. Your request will either be "enrolled, wait listed, or denied with an explanation".
• A representative of AutismUp will contact you if there are any issues with your registration.
• To apply for a scholarship, please complete a Scholarship Request Form and send the first two pages of your most recent tax return to: AutismUp, Attention: Program Office.
• Installment billing is available to all families. Contact finance@autismup.org for more info.
• Gift cards are available for purchase and redeemable towards the cost of any class, program, workshop, or special event.

Feel free to contact us anytime with questions or concerns, (585-248-9011 or cjones@autismup.org).

What payment options are available?

During the registration process, you will be required to provide a deposit per participant, per class, to reserve your space(s), and will select your preferred payment option: Deposit Payment Only, Other Amount, or Pay in Full. You may edit your preferred payment options at any time on your AutismUp CampSite Dashboard in the “Financial” section.

What payment methods are accepted?

• Credit Card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, & Visa)Cash
• Cash
• Check (made payable to AutismUp)
• Electronic Checks
• Billing available for Self-Directed funds
NOTE: During registration, only electronic forms of payment are accepted online. If you wish to sign up with a non-electronic form of payment, please do so by contacting the Program office.

Important notes about payments:

• You are responsible for payment to AutismUp in the case of denied coverage under the participant's individual Self-Direction budget.
  
  
• There is a $20 fee for anything returned to AutismUp, including, but not limited to: insufficient funds, closed bank account, invalid credit card number, etc.
• At the time of registration, a payment/deposit must be made.

Does AutismUp accept Self-Direction or Medicaid funds for payment?

• AutismUp does accept Self-Direction payments.
  
• The Self-Direction Form is required to be complete to ensure direct billing to your Fiscal Intermediary.
• Deposits are applied to your total balance.
• The AutismUp Finance Department will contact the Fiscal Intermediary that you provide as part of your registration to arrange payments.
  
• Families are responsible for payment in full of any balance which is not covered by Self Directed Funds or for class(es) that have been disqualified by your F.I.
  
• Unfortunately, AutismUp does not accept Medicaid at this time.

What is the AutismUp refund policy?

• Classes cancelled due to low enrollment will receive a full refund.

• No refunds will be given for absences.
• If classes are cancelled due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances, a make-up class will be arranged. In the event that one can not be made, a pro-rated refund will be credited.

What is the AutismUp cancellation Policy?

• Participants may withdraw from class with no penalty with 30 days written notice to the AutismUp Finance Department at finance@autismup.org.

Does AutismUp provide financial assistance?

The Richard and Nancy Dorschel Family Foundation Scholarship Program makes scholarships available for eligible families. A scholarship form must be completed for each request and sent to the program office along with the top two pages of the most recent tax returns. A completed online registration form and deposit is also required. Scholarship applicants will be notified within one week of all materials received. An invoice will be sent for any remaining balance and payment must be made in adherence to the due date.

Privacy Policy

Any information submitted to AutismUp is only viewable by authorized personnel. We only have access to/collect information that you voluntarily give us via direct contact from you. We will not sell or rent this information to anyone. We take precautions to protect your information. When you submit sensitive information via the website, your information is protected both online and offline. Wherever we collect sensitive information (such as credit card data), that information is encrypted and transmitted to us in a secure way.

How do I purchase an AutismUp gift card?

Gift cards are available in any denomination and may be used towards any class, program or special event. To purchase a gift card on line, click here, select an amount and specify how you want to receive your card. To purchase a gift card by check or cash, please email finance@autismup.org or call us at (585) 248-9011. Gift cards are available to purchase in person during normal operating hours and at on site member events.

Do I have to stay onsite while my child is in a class?

Families of children 6 and younger, and/or who are not independently toilet trained, must stay on site at all times.

Families of children 7 - 12 are required to stay on site for the first two weeks of programming.

Families of children 13+ are not required to stay on site unless they have a history of challenging behavior. Please refer to Safety Zone guidelines.

Any family may be required to stay on site if their child exhibits

• Harmful behavior to themselves or others
• Hurtful or inappropriate language towards themselves or others
• Elopement attempts
• Frequent refusal of rules
• Seizures within the past year (or other concerning medical conditions)

A "late pick up fee" applies if you are not on time for pick up.

Do I need to sign my child in and out of the building?

Yes, all participants must be signed in and out of the building by a caregiver and/or authorized individual. The only exception is if the participant has written permission to leave independently. AutismUp must receive a written notice and have it on file from a parent/guardian.

What is your behavior management approach?

AutismUp exercises a “hands-off” approach, except in the case of an emergency. We strive to meet the individual support needs of each participant through a comprehensive intake process, thoughtful recommendations and placement, and tailored behavioral interventions. The safety of all participants and staff is a priority at all times. AutismUp will make recommendations/changes to program activities and placement, as needed, to ensure the success and safety of all participants and staff.

Does AutismUp have a video surveillance system?

AutismUp is equipped with video surveillance cameras inside program spaces, in order to monitor activities by AutismUp employees and administration. The cameras are positioned to view a majority of the center activities, but certain areas of the center may not be clearly viewable. Bathrooms do not contain cameras. While working at, or visiting AutismUp, you are authorizing AutismUp to record and use the recordings in any lawful manner deemed necessary. Program participants, parents and guests are expected to adhere to all posted facility rules and signs.

What is the dress code/shoe policy at AU?

The AutismUp Multi-Sensory Learning Environment is a recreation and "gym" space. Comfortable attire is welcome and appropriate clean, indoor footwear (clean shoes and socks) is required in all program spaces, including the gym floor at all times. The only exception is the trampoline - no shoes, but socks are required. For safety, participants may not use fitness equipment without appropriate footwear. Participants may want to consider dressing in layers as temperatures vary between classrooms, the sensory gym and between activities. Coat hooks and cubbies are available for use during programming.

We appreciate that accidents happen, so AutismUp maintains a supply of clean clothing in the event an item is soiled while in a class. Socks are available for use on the trampoline for a small fee.

Are classes open to siblings?

AutismUp classes are offered to individuals of every ability. We welcome families to register siblings.

Do you have open gym hours?

To ensure the safety of visitors and proper usage of specialized sensory equipment, we do not have drop in gym hours. Usage of the multi-sensory learning environment gym and equipment is for individuals registered in a supported AutismUp social, sensory, recreation, fitness or readiness program.

What if I have questions about an invoice I have received?

Please send an email to finance@autismup.org, or contact Donna Colline, at (585) 248-9011, ext. 101.

Where is AutismUp located? Do you have multiple locations?

AutismUp is located within the Golisano Autism Center, 50 Science Parkway Rochester NY 14620, and is home to our fitness and sensory gym. Certain programs are held at locations within the community due to the specialized nature of the program, including, but not limited to: area YMCA's, Rochester Institute of Technology, AMF Bowling and Nazareth College. Refer to the Programs, Classes and Workshops section for a listing of all available programs and their specific locations.

Does AutismUp provide transportation to and from programs?

No, participants are responsible for providing their own transportation.

Can AutismUp provide an autism diagnosis?

AutismUp is a support organization providing programs and services to support individuals and families living with autism spectrum disorder. We do not provide diagnoses at AutismUp. Click here for information about Autism Evaluations locally.

Can AutismUp recommend a professional or provider familiar with autism?

We do not make recommendations but we have lists of community resources here. We suggest you visit our Services and Support section, and take advantage of your membership and our network of 2,300 members! Our private AutismUp Parents Facebook Group allows you to ask other parents for recommendations and/or suggestions.

Can AutismUp help me navigate my child's individual school program?

AutismUp offers private consultations for all matters associated with parenting a child with autism. Learn more here.

When is AutismUp open?

AutismUp hours of operation vary each semester based on program schedules. AutismUp administrative office hours are Monday through Thursday, 10 AM - 2 PM. Most of our programs are held after school and on the weekends, and program schedules are generally late afternoon/evenings Monday through Thursday, and Saturdays.

Can I use your space outside of program hours?

AutismUp hosts many community organizations and offers Community Based Instruction, school groups and professional training. See our Supports and Services section.

Am I able to drop in for a tour?

We are available for tours and program consults. Email cjones@autismup.org to schedule a visit.

Does AutismUp require any waivers or releases?

A waiver is required for all programs/classes, family events, and the like. We also request but do not require a photo release, which helps ensure that we have a rich and realistic array of pictures of our programs for promotional and fundraising purposes. Both are embedded in the Family Profile for programs/classes/workshops, and included in registration forms or requested on paper for other activities.

I’d like to hold a fundraiser for AutismUp. Who do I contact?

We love it when our members and others in the community hold their own fundraisers for AutismUp! You can contact Sue Tharrett at stharrett@autismup.org for more information on how we can support your efforts on behalf of AutismUp.