Services: Admission Criteria & Fees

Admission Criteria

All decisions regarding the admission/discharge of individuals will be made jointly by the Unicorn Centers' staff and the Executive Director. Decisions will be based on the ability of the facility to meet the needs and the ability of the individual. To be eligible for admission, one must be:

  • An individual with a primary diagnosis of mental retardation.
  • An individual with mental retardation who is independent in self-help skills (i.e. toileting, feeding, etc.).
  • An individual with mental retardation who is capable of taking medication with supervision.
  • An individual with mental retardation who has a need for a variety of opportunities to increase social interaction and to develop social skills.
  • An individual with mental retardation who is capable of communicating his/her needs.
  • An individual with mental retardation who does not exhibit a pattern of aggressive behavior that presents a danger to self or others.
  • An individual with mental retardation who does not exhibit destructive behavior.
  • An individual with mental retardation who respects the property/rights of others by not taking/destroying the personal belongings of other individuals.
  • An individual with mental retardation who is at least 22 years of age for the full-time program and at least 18 years of age for the school holiday/summer program.
  • An individual who exhibits self-abusive behavior, elopes, or has physically aggressive behavior towards others is not eligible for the program.
  • An individual who destroys property (i.e., breaking windows, setting fires, smashing furniture, etc.) is not eligible for the program.

Initial Trial Period

Each individual will begin with a three day trial period. During that time, the individual will have an opportunity to participate in the program of Unicorn Centers, meet the staff and make a decision about whether or not to proceed on a long-term basis. The staff will have an opportunity to voice concerns and/or comments regarding the potential admission of a client. A final decision regarding admission will be made jointly by all relevant parties, including, but not limited to: the individual, his/her parent or guardian, QMRP, Case Manager or the Unicorn Centers' staff.

Program Fees

Regular fee for monthly service: 

  • $350.00 payable in full before the 10th of each month.
  • The Unicorn Centers, Inc. is open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 
  • It is the parent's, guardian's or company's responsibility to ensure that your client is picked up by 5:00 p.m. We do not have any provisions for late pickup.
  • Tuition may be paid in two payments (1st and the 15th of the month) with the permission of the Director of Operations. Tuition paid after the 15th will include a $10.00 late fee.
  • “Part-Time” slots are not available at the Unicorn. Fees are calculated for full-time programs. If the client does not attend due to illness or personal issues, total fees are due. A two-week vacation will be calculated and deducted from the tuition each year. Please inform the Center so that this can be planned.
  • The fee for summer school students (individuals ages 18-21) is $200.00 per month, payable before the 10th of the month.
  • Fee for school vacation days (individuals ages 18-21) is $25.00 per day, payable at the beginning of each week.

Scholarship Information

Tuition assistance is available in limited amounts. Scholarship applications must be completed and approved by the Unicorn Centers, Inc. Scholarship Committee. Tax returns for two years prior to admission and SSI or retirement information must be submitted with application.

Admission Criteria Admission Criteria Admission Criteria Admission Criteria