GENERAL PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

OK Programs is a dynamic, person-centered and community-based day program that engages the voice of all Warriors, thrives on interdependent connections, encourages exploration, centers on holistic wellness and fosters healthy relationships. Activity offerings are developed inside 8 areas of focus, and a blend of ongoing initiatives and new creations that evolve with Warrior, staff and family input collected during the Thematic Planning Process.

SESSION LENGTH & REGISTRATION PROCESS

Typical program sessions will last 8 weeks. OK will host open registration for each session, as the posted calendar states. Registration is on a request basis vs automatic enrollment due to considerations of staffing, space and safety.

HOURS of OPERATION

Mondays – no programs
Day Programming: Tuesday thru Friday, 9AM – 230PM
PM Programming: Tuesday thru Friday, 3PM – 6PM

LOCATION

River Forest Community Center (RFCC)
8020 Madison St., River Forest, IL 60305

PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS

The program is open to Warriors of all abilities.

Eligible participants must be older than 14.5 years of age.

PROGRAM COST STRUCTURE UPDATE

The program cost is based on $17/hour fee. Currently, OK Programs is only available on a private-pay fee for service. We expect to become a licensed community day service provider in 2024. At that time, we will be able accept state funding from program participants with PUNS funding.

Financial assistance is available for Warriors & Families that apply and qualify. It is our objective to overcome financial barriers so that this program and all OK programs are accessible. Please contact Mike Carmody at mike@opportunityknocksnow.org with inquiries and to learn more.

CURRENT SESSION SUMMARY

Join us for a dynamic week at OK Programs filled with independence-focused activities and exciting experiences! All morning and mid-day blocks are dedicated to balance activities.

Join us for a dynamic week at OK Programs filled with activities and exciting experiences surrounding the theme of independence! All morning and mid-day blocks are dedicated to independence-based activities, cooking, and grocery shopping, empowering Warriors to express their needs and preferences confidently while learning skills to embrace being independent.

On Tuesdays, we venture to the Opportunity Knocks farm for a unique farming experience, fostering teamwork and responsibility. Wednesdays are packed with enriching community engagement through Community Opportunities, where Warriors actively contribute to our local charity. Additionally, Wednesdays offer fitness and hygiene activities to support an independent, healthy lifestyle.
For fitness enthusiasts, Friday’s PM blocks offer workouts at Loyola Fitness Center, while Thursday’s features fitness at John Hayley and Yoga at OK during mid-day and PM blocks.
Fridays are special as Warriors lead the programming, planning exciting activities to end the week on a high note and encourage independent thinking and planning.

Throughout the week, theme-based independence activities are seamlessly woven into our schedule, ensuring every Warrior gains valuable skills and experiences. Join us for a week of empowerment, growth, and fun!

Important Registration Information

• REQUEST TO REGISTER – Opportunity Knocks must apply staffing, safety and space considerations to all registration requests, thus the initial registration request can not be guaranteed. Registration for ALL program days is not guaranteed and will always be influenced by our registration’s “request to register” strategy. We take this approach so that we can secure adequate staff, ensure safety and high-quality program environments.
• Dress comfortably and appropriately for summer weather & bring your WATER! Hats, sunglasses, closed-toed shoes, and water bottles are encouraged.  Also, be sure to bring your preferred sunscreen and insect repellent with you to programs since we plan on being outdoors as much as possible and weather permitting.
• WARRIOR ABSENCES – OK program activities and staffing are based on the expectations of full attendance of all enrolled Warriors.  If a Warrior is absent the program team must still operate with full staffing. Please review the full details of Warrior absences and terms of service in our financial agreement at the end of the session registration form.