What to Expect

Banner image

Whether you know exactly which of our programs you’re looking for, or you just have lots of questions and need some answers, the process of contacting Aspire to learn more can seem overwhelming. Here you’ll find a step-by-step process of what to expect when you’re trying to figure out how we might best help you.

Inquiring about our services

Here at Aspire, we receive inquiries from parents, extended family and many different professionals. Typically, these inquiries are received by phone or email, and are directed to our Intake Coordinator.

Our Intake Coordinator will want to hear your concerns for your child. She will ask you questions about your child to help clarify what the concerns are and how best your needs can be met. She will explain the services that seem to be a best fit and explain the application process.

The Intake Coordinator will also provide you with information about other services in the community that may benefit your child. She will do her best to ensure that you have the information to help you in accessing the services you need to support your child.

Applying for our services

If you have chosen to apply for Aspire services or programs, you will be able to do so by completing an application. You can find the application online here, for printing and completing at home, or we are happy to mail, email, or fax you an application.

Once you have the application we ask that you fill it in as completely as you can. Our team of professionals will need this information to ensure they provide the best service to your family.

When you have completed the application, please attach any supporting documentation such as custody papers, prior assessments, or screenings. (We are happy to make copies for you if you come by our Centre). Once you have everything you want to send to us please drop off the forms or email, mail, or fax these to our Centre.

For all programs and services at Aspire, there is a $50 application fee required when you submit your application. This can be paid by cash, cheque, debit, or credit card. If you are mailing, emailing or faxing in your forms, you can call with a credit card number for the application fee.

Waiting for services to begin

Now that we have received your application and application fee, we review your application to ensure that we have the information we require to get your child on the waitlist for the appropriate service. If we require anything further at this time, the Intake Coordinator will call you.

Waiting can be difficult so if you are wondering where things are at with your child’s application, please feel free to give the Intake Coordinator a call. She can give you up to date information on your child’s application status and support you in accessing any other services through Aspire or in the greater community while you are waiting.

When it is time to get ready to come to Aspire we will give you a call and share all the important details about the program or service. At this time, you can ask any questions, and we will ensure you are informed of the next steps.

Getting ready to come to Aspire

Once you have confirmed your service or program, and have the dates and time set, it’s now time to think about what you need to do to prepare for your time with us. Some of these tasks may include:

  • Completing additional forms if requested
  • Paying your program fee
  • Informing your child’s school if applicable
  • Arranging childcare for siblings
  • Ensuring you have transportation to and from our Centre

Some of our services will start with an initial “meet and greet” appointment where you will receive additional information about the service and get all your questions answered. We want you to be part of the process and a partner in the services we provide so we will encourage you to attend opportunities to meet staff and take a tour.

Welcome to the Aspire family

Whether you are here for one appointment or for the full year we are happy to have you as part of our Aspire family. It is our hope that you feel welcome and involved in your child’s success and the programs we offer.

If it is your first time at our Centre and you are not sure where to go please report to our main reception area on the first floor. Our reception staff will be able to point you in the right direction.

It is never really goodbye

Once you are part of the Aspire family, we will stay in touch as much as you like by informing you of programs and events happening in our Centre, and in the community. You will have a standing invitation to join us for fun Aspire events, such as Fall into Fun and our Aspire Family Christmas Party. You are always welcome to contact our Intake Coordinator to get support or help with a question or a resource. She will do her best to help, even if you have moved out of province or your child is now an adult. At Aspire, we want to see families succeed and if we can help in your families’ success we are only a phone call away.

Whether we are helping a current or a past Aspire family, we always strive to fulfill our mission of providing hope to children with special needs, the families who love them, and the communities that care for them.