Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements to apply for Membership at The Common Room? 

 

To apply for membership, you must be 18 years or older and complete the Discovery Process with one of our staff members to see if The Common Room is a good match for you. Members are typically looking for a comfortable place to hang out with like-minded adults. Members of The Common Room may be diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome, High Cognitive Autism, Non-Verbal Learning Disorder; or have no formal diagnosis. The Discovery Process begins when you submit an inquiry email on our website.

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Why is the Discovery Process necessary before becoming a confirmed Member of The Common 

Room?

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The Discovery Process allows us to get to know you as a unique individual. We discuss your likes and dislikes, learn about your talents and challenges, and determine if we are able to provide recreational opportunities that you will enjoy. The better we know you, the better we can provide a comfortable, safe and engaging environment that offers diverse opportunities for you to enjoy! 

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What happens after an inquiry email is submitted to The Common Room? ​

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• A Common room staff member calls you for a pre-interview

• Submit a completed membership application either online or print and mail it to us

• Complete an in-person interview with a Common Room staff member

• Tour of The Common Room

• Notified regarding membership approval from a Common Room staff member

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Can I bring a family member, friend or support person to participate in the Discovery Process with me, prior to confirmed Membership? 

 

For the tour or initial meeting, you are welcome to bring a family member, friend or support person. 

All Common Room programs and activities are only open to confirmed members. This allows us to provide a comfortable, safe environment for those who have completed the Discovery Process and know activities will be fun and of interest. 

If you would like to bring a guest to The Common Room, they can accompany you, wait in the designated area while you participate in programs and activities. 

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Is there a membership fee? If so, is their financial aid available?

 

There is a minimum monthly membership fee of $50 per member that helps to defray our 

administrative costs. Members will be responsible for their own spending money when participating in community activities and/or trips. 

If you are unable to pay the monthly fee, please do not hesitate to speak with a staff member about financial aid. The Common Room is committed to making sure all members are able to participate in its programs and activities.

 

Do you accept healthcare insurance? 

 

We do not accept healthcare insurance payment for participation. Please feel free to contact a staff member to discuss how we can support your membership participation. 

 

What kind of activities will The Common Room offer? 

 

The Common Room provides varied recreational activities to meet the diverse interests of our members. Opportunities to just hang out or engage with others take place within The Common Room house, as well as during community activities and trips. Open hours are posted on our website, so members have the opportunity to leave your house or apartment, to meet others, participate in activities or simply relax in a comfortable environment. Sample activities and rooms may include:

• Movie Nights

• Kayaking

• Game room

• Gaming Tournaments

• Library room

• Hiking

• Wellness Room

• Cooking Lessons

• Museum tours

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When can a Member begin to enjoy The Common Room activities? What are your hours of operation? 

Once membership is confirmed, you will receive a login to access our activities calendar and program descriptions. The calendar will detail our in-house activities as well as community activities and trips. All members are free to choose what interests them, and participation is voluntary. Staff is happy to answer questions and provide guidance for any member who would like assistance in deciding which programs to attend and experience. The Common Room is open during scheduled activities. Hours of operation are posted on our website www.thecommonroom.org

 

How can I feel safe and comfortable while participating in activities? 

The Common Room has a welcoming yet strict ‘Climate and Conduct Code’ for all members and staff. The ‘Climate and Conduct Code’ is provided to every member and is posted in all areas of The Common Room. These guidelines request that all participants respect confidentiality, respect personal space and boundaries and work together to keep our shared space comfortable and accepting of differences. For more information, please click on ‘Climate and Conduct’ to be directed to our detailed guidelines posted on our website.