Frequently Asked Questions

Don’t see your question answered below?
Please email us at grants@aotsf.org and we’ll be happy to help.

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Who can apply for a Dream Come True Grant?

Families that include one or more neurodivergent individuals or individuals with other disabilities, of any age, may apply. Grants are available only to families residing in the United States and Canada.

 

How do I apply?

Due to extremely high demand, families must first join our mailing list. When funding allows us to open a grant cycle, families on the list are invited by email to submit an application.

 

How do I join the mailing list?

Click the button below and complete the registration form. You’ll receive a confirmation email and may be asked to verify your email address to ensure you receive future updates.

 

I received an email invitation to apply. What should I do next?

Please re-read the Grant Terms & Conditions. When you're ready, click the link in your email and complete the application form. If you have questions, email us at grants@aotsf.org.

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What types of vacations are available?

In line with our mission, the Foundation focuses on awarding staff-assisted cruise vacations. These vacations are delivered in partnership with Autism on the Seas, the industry-leading provider of staff-assisted cruise programs. You can learn more about their services on their website.

 

What documentation is accepted as proof of diagnosis?

We accept:

• A physician’s diagnosis, or

• Educational documentation such as a 504 Plan or IEP​

Documentation must be uploaded with your application. Applications submitted without proof of diagnosis cannot be reviewed.

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Who can participate in the vacation?

The grant covers immediate family members only, including parents or caregivers and siblings of the individual(s) with a disability. Extended family members or friends may travel at the same time, but they must pay for their own vacation expenses.

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Will our family need to pay anything if we receive a grant?

The Foundation typically covers:

• Cruise fare

• Standard daily gratuities

• Transportation to and from the cruise port

• Wi-Fi for one device

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Optional or discretionary expenses—such as excursions, additional Wi-Fi, specialty dining, or beverage packages—are not normally covered. Read our Grant Terms & Conditions for a full list of included and excluded items.

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Are there financial or other eligibility requirements?

The Foundation does not award grants based on race, religion, gender, or economic status. Grants are awarded based on overall need, circumstances, and the potential impact of the experience.

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The application asks me to write why the grant is necessary. What should I include?

Our Review Committee carefully reads every application and must make difficult decisions due to limited funding. This is your opportunity to share your family’s circumstances, challenges, and why this experience would be meaningful to you. Examples may include families who have never been able to take a vacation, or who have faced significant hardship or loss—but every story is unique. Information shared in applications is kept confidential and used only within the Foundation.

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Can a family receive more than one grant?

No. Due to overwhelming demand and limited funding, the Foundation can award only one grant per family.

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My application was not selected. What are my options?

We understand how disappointing this can be. Demand for grants far exceeds our available funding. There are other organizations, some larger than our Foundation, that also support families in need or help with fundraising. We have compiled a list of such organizations on this page for reference; inclusion does not imply endorsement.