Get Involved

Volunteering gives you an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of people impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder. We have many ways to get involved, whether you want to help out as an organization or by yourself, or with one of our ongoing recreational programs or just once at a special event. Being a volunteer with OUCARES is a fun, rewarding experience and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

Oakland University requires all individuals interested in volunteering for university-affiliated youth programs undergo a national background check prior to volunteering. This requirement is part of protocols established to ensure safe conduct and supportive interaction between youth and adults. To learn more, visit OU's Youth Protection webpage.

Apply Now!
If you're interested in volunteering with OUCARES, please complete the OUCARES Volunteer Form. Once submitted someone from OUCARES will contact you within two business days with next steps.

Testimonials
What will you get out of volunteering? Read the volunteer testimonials below to find out:

“Volunteering with OUCARES has been a wonderful learning experience for me. It has allowed me to make connections with a population that I never had before and has given me a new passion. Because of OUCARES, I now volunteer and work with individuals with autism at a deeper level and will continue to do so.”
– Kelsey, age 20

“It was truly a privilege to have had the opportunity to volunteer for activities with OUCARES. The time donated to this amazing population was minor compared to the joy I received in return. I had the great fortune to meet many exceptional children, adults and parents and feel that I am better for the experience. I cannot express in words how rewarding it is to work with these individuals.”
–Mary Ann, age 44

“I can honestly tell you the day I volunteer is my favorite day of the week! The kids and other volunteers are so welcoming. I have made some of my best friends at the OUCARES programs. As a volunteer we are supposed to be helping the kids but I think they are the ones helping me.”
– Juliana, age 26

“I get more out of volunteering with OUCARES than I put in. It is up close and personal and the highlight of my week.”
– Brian, age 48

Thank you for your commitment to the mission of OUCARES! Your time and effort are greatly appreciated as you move ahead in planning a fundraiser to support the Oakland University Center for Autism.

Any person(s) or group can plan and implement a third party fundraiser for OUCARES. Third party fundraisers allow people to come together to raise awareness and acceptance of Autism Spectrum Disorders as well as strive towards a common goal of improving quality of life for people impacted by Autism. You design and fund the event or activity, host it, and invite guests while making a huge difference in the lives of people impacted by Autism. Your third party event or activity can be as large or small as you like as long as a few guidelines are followed.

Examples of third party fundraisers include but are not limited to

• Run/Walk Events
• Silent Auctions
• Dinner Parties
• Bake Sales
• Car Washes
• Restaurant Nights or Openings
• Garage Sales

Individuals or organizations interested in hosting a fundraiser and donating all or some of the net proceeds to OUCARES should first read the Third Party Fundraiser Guidelines and then complete the Third Party Fundraiser Application.

Thank you for your interest in supporting OUCARES. We deeply appreciate the commitment and investment of time and resources required to host a third party fundraiser.