Chili cookoff Jan. 21 to benefit Canopy Adult Services
Join Canopy Adult Services for the second annual chili cook-off from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 21, in the Barrel Room at Alter Brewing Company, 2300 Wisconsin Ave., Unit 213, Downers Grove. Enjoy unlimited chili tastings with local craft brews.
Tickets are $20 or $5 for children, age 10 or younger. For tickets, visit www.mygiantsteps.org/chili.
Alter Brewing will be offering $5 draft beers and there will be gourmet desserts from local bakeries.
For questions, contact Tara Oetting at toetting@mygiantsteps.org or (630) 864-3853.
All proceeds benefit Canopy's programming, outings, and supplies.
Canopy is a day program for adult individuals on the autism spectrum. The program began in May 2012 as a response to the growing needs of the adult autism population in the suburbs.
The goals of the program include providing individualized programming that recognizes the strengths and interests of each participant, providing meaningful opportunities to interact with the broader community, and to support participants in lifelong learning and engagement.
Canopy primarily serves adults between the ages of 22 and older, with an option for transition age students (18-21) to participate as part of a blended program.
The blended program offers the therapeutic supports of the school program as well as part-day adult services. The purpose of placing an age limit on these services is to be able to more effectively address the current age specific needs of the group, as well as to maintain a relevant peer group.
Canopy works to incorporate a combination of activities, opportunities, and supports throughout each participant's programming.
It may include participation in community engagement outings, life skills opportunities, vocational readiness activities, leisure or recreational skill development including music therapy, media integration, and movement based sessions.
Additionally, the staff is well trained to incorporate sensory tools and strategies within each individual's day to better support their diverse needs. Visit www.mygiantsteps.org/canopy.