harold, Author at Canucks Autism Network

November 8, 2022

At Canucks Autism Network (CAN), we believe that every child, youth and adult on the autism spectrum has the right to play sports. And that includes the joy of being in the pool!

Being confident in the water can open up a wide range of recreational opportunities for our participants – from family vacations at the lake to competitive swimming. And in beautiful BC, where we’re surrounded by lakes and oceanfronts, swimming skills can be lifesaving.

As we prepare for our upcoming winter season next year, we have an important announcement.

Beginning January 2023, CAN swim will transition from its alignment with the Canadian Red Cross to the new Lifesaving Society format.

This is a move endorsed by the Canadian Red Cross, as they phase out of their delivery of swim programs nation-wide. So what does this mean for CAN programs?

You can still expect the same high-ratio of participant support. And, of course, the same level of enthusiasm that our staff and volunteers bring to the program each session!

Much like the previous Canadian Red Cross format, the Lifesaving Society focuses on water safety in addition to swimming skills. In particular, their curriculum emphasizes Water Smart® Education and Swim to Survive® skills.

Not sure which CAN swim program to register for? Refer to our transition table below!

Previous CAN Swim Canadian Red Cross	New CAN Swim (Starting Jan 2023) Lifesaving Society	Skills Required & Taught
Swim (3-6yrs)	Preschool Swim (3-5yrs)	Skills Required: For kids just starting out Skills Taught: Safe entries, surface support, underwater skills & movement/swimming skills
Swim 1 (7-12yrs)	Swimmer 1 (6-12yrs)	Skills Required: For kids just starting out Skills Taught: Safe entries, surface support, underwater skills & movement/swimming skills
Swim 2 (7-12yrs)	Swimmer 2 (6-12yrs)	Skills Required: For kids who can jump into chest-deep water by themselves or deep-water wearing a lifejacket Skills Taught: Focus on opening eyes & holding breath underwater, floating, kicking & front/back gliding
Swim 3 (7-12yrs)	Swimmer 3 (6-12yrs)	Skills Required: For kids who can jump into deep water and do a sideways entry wearing a lifejacket Skills Taught: Focus on supporting self at surface for 15s, whip kicks in vertical position, swimming 10m on front and back
Swim 1 (13+yrs)	Youth & Adult Swim (13+yrs)	Skills Required: For youth & adults who are just starting out Skills Taught: Safe entries, surface support, underwater skills & movement/swimming skills (equivalent to LSS Swimmer 1)

Key transition takeaways:

The previous 3-6yrs age group is now offered only to 3-5yrs.
The previous 7-12yrs age group has been expanded to 6-12yrs.

Please refer to the skills column above to determine which level to register for.*

*It is the parent/guardian/participant’s responsibility to sign up for the correct level. If a participant has not been placed correctly, our ability to transfer them into the appropriate level once the season has begun will be subject to program availability. If space is not available in the appropriate level, the participant will have to removed from the program.

Previously completed Canadian Red Cross levels can be carried over to the new Lifesaving Society format.**

**If a participant had previously completed CAN Swim Level 1, they can register for the new CAN Swimmer 2 program.

After benefiting from adapted instruction at CAN, Linden took her skills & confidence to City of Surrey swim lessons to obtain her Canadian Red Cross Level 3 badge! Read Linden’s story >

Beyond CAN swim:

Like the previous Canadian Red Cross model, the Lifesaving Society delivers instruction beyond the Swimmer 3 level.

We will continue to provide standardized report cards that allow CAN participants who are ready to transition out of our programs.

With your Lifesaving Society Swimmer 1, 2 or 3 report card from CAN, you’ll be able to transition to typical swimming lessons at your local community centre.

This past year alone, our certified CAN swim instructors taught over 650 participants across BC.

We can’t wait to see what 2023 brings!

Ready to dive in? See which CAN swim programs are being offered in your community in the Program Guide!

Since launching in Kelowna just seven years ago, hundreds of local families have benefited from CAN’s growing portfolio of sports and rec programs, summer day camps, youth and adult opportunities, and year-round family experiences. None of this growth would have been possible without Dave’s unparalleled efforts to create positive change in his community.

Your support of the Dave McAnerney Ride for Autism will ensure his dream for a better future for people on the autism spectrum will forever live on.

A beautiful ride through wine country in support of a meaningful cause.

For years, the HM Commercial Ride for Autism, presented by Nicola Wealth, has been a staple in the Kelowna community.

Founded by Dave McAnerney, whose nephew is on the autism spectrum, the event benefits Canucks Autism Network (CAN) programs for children, youth, and adults on the spectrum in Kelowna.

Hosted at Kitsch Wines this past May, the event succeeded in raising an event record of $235,000!

The incredible total was achieved by 122 participants who collected over $120,000 in donations leading up to the event. Those efforts were bolstered by an additional contribution of $115,000 from the Stober Foundation.

This year, riders could choose up to eight tasting stops to include in their East Kelowna tour – six wineries, a distillery and a cidery. And for non-cyclists who still wanted to support the cause, Wicked Wine Tours stepped up to offer a free shuttle.

After a day of tastings and fun challenges, participants returned to Kitsch Wines where they enjoyed a picnic catered by Urban Fare paired with live entertainment from singer/songwriter, Joshua Smith.

To top it off, event participants heard from Evan Noble, a 24-year-old on the autism spectrum.

Evan is one of the hundreds of participants who has directly benefited from CAN programs in Kelowna.

In addition to offering sports & rec opportunities since 2014, CAN has recently introduced employment services for Autistic job seekers. Evan shared how support from job coaches and employers positively impacted his personal employment journey, helping him to succeed in a range of sectors, while gaining valuable independence in his adulthood.

CAN’s newfound employment services in the region reflect their belief that every Autistic individual has the right to meaningful employment – and that every community should take action to support those on the spectrum.

With many attendees representing local businesses from the Landmark District, the hope is that the event’s impact will extend far beyond the funds raised. As employers learn about the benefits of inclusive hiring, the hope is that more opportunities will be made available for Autistic job seekers.

Thanks to all those involved in the “HM Ride”, hundreds of individuals like Evan will be able to learn new skills, make new friends, and get connected to meaningful job opportunities within the Kelowna community.

Learn more about CAN Employment Services, delivered in partnership with Ready, Willing & Able, at canucksautism.ca/rwa.

Learn more about the HM Commercial Ride for Autism, presented by Nicola Wealth, at canucksautism.ca/hmride.

At Canucks Autism Network (CAN), we recognize that needs change with age. We believe that every Autistic individual should be supported during important transitions into adulthood.

We’re proud to have evolved over the years to meet the changing needs of our members by addressing some of the major gaps and most urgent issues impacting youth and adults on the spectrum. This includes program opportunities in employment, social and community connection, and most recently, mental health.

One of the most common barriers that Autistic youth and adults face is the need for a formal autism diagnosis to access supports.

In talking with CAN members and the broader autism community, many themes have emerged as potential barriers to formal diagnosis including cost, access to a professional who is qualified to provide a diagnosis, fear of not being believed, and other challenges navigating the healthcare system.

For the above reasons, CAN will no longer be requiring a formal diagnosis for individuals over 13 years of age who are interested in accessing any program or service provided by CAN. This important decision to increase accessibility has already been met with enthusiasm from our CAN community.

Longtime CAN program participant, and now CAN program and training team staff member, Kayla Tellier shared her excitement about the change.

“I almost didn’t get a diagnosis. The cost and fact that it was a late diagnosis would have been barriers if not for having an amazing counselor at the time,” Kayla shared.

“I am very excited about this change as I experienced barriers to services for a couple years after high school and struggled to get a diagnosis due to doctor issues and cost. I was lucky enough that I eventually did get my diagnosis, but I can see these issues being a continued barrier for many others, especially women/girls who frequently go undiagnosed. Allowing people to self-diagnose for services opens opportunities for those who were not lucky enough to find a workaround and for those facing other barriers that often stand in the way.”

CAN Office Administrator and program participant, Maxwell, elaborated on the importance of this shift to allowing individuals who are self-diagnosed to access CAN programs and services.

“As an Autistic individual, I have invested so much time in trying to find appropriate services that would match my support needs. I have eventually just given up on services after having to put in a LOT of trial and error in finding things that can help me,” Max shared.

“Making the diagnosis criteria optional for youth & adults opens a gate of opportunities for other individuals on the spectrum, especially in their time of transitioning from high school onto their own journey.”

CAN’s core program focus areas for youth and adults include:

social connection
recreation & leisure
mental health & wellness
employment

Get involved! Sign up for our youth & adult newsletter >

Questions? Email youthandadults@canucksautism.ca

At Canucks Autism Network (CAN), we believe that every individual on the spectrum has the right to play sports. Like all our efforts, we rely on dedicated community support to make that belief a reality.

That’s why it was particularly meaningful to see our friends at Sport Surrey and the City of Surrey join us in hosting the first-ever CAN Hockey Jamboree.

Held this past April 2 at the Surrey Sport & Leisure Complex, the event was an opportunity for CAN Hockey participants and their families to close out the season in style.

City of Surrey Doug McCallum dropped the puck in a ceremonial faceoff between player representatives the CAN Surrey Stingrays & Surrey Knights Junior B Team.

Our hockey program features over 60 young athletes on the autism spectrum on four teams across the Lower Mainland — the Vancouver Orcas (youth & adult), Coquitlam Sharks (youth) and Surrey Stingrays (youth). Each team practices on a weekly basis, honing their skills, while forging meaningful social connections.

With the season culminating on April 2, players and their families were given the star treatment. As partners of the City of Surrey and longtime CAN supporters, the Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society were on hand to serve up hot dogs and treats. And with the event also taking place on World Autism Day, Mayor Doug McCallum joined the players on the ice to drop the ceremonial puck.

The end-of-year event was made possible with support from Sport Surrey.

Surrey Fire Fighters serving up a BBQ lunch for the participating players and families.

After a series of scrimmages for our players to showcase their talents, parents and siblings were also invited onto the ice for a family skate.

“On behalf of City of Surrey – Parks, Recreation and Culture staff, it was our pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all the athletes, coaches, officials, and volunteers participating in the Canucks Autism Network – Hockey Jamboree 2022” said Manvir Aujla, Community Services Assistant for Universal Design and Accessibility Services. “The City of Surrey is committed to creating a world where all on the autism spectrum can reach their full potential and encourages everyone to learn more about autism and how we can support the diverse needs. Also, a huge thank you to all the organizers and volunteers who have worked hard to make this a successful event!”

The Vancouver Orcas’ adult team takes a break from the action.

The Coquitlam Sharks are CAN’s newest hockey team.

While the celebration was generously funded by Sport Surrey, the City of Surrey’s involvement with CAN extends far beyond this one-day event.

In addition to collaborating with the city to increase accessibility in community spaces, they have opened the doors of their pools, rinks and gyms to host CAN programs for years.

In particular, the CAN Hockey program in Surrey operates out of the same rink as the Pacific Junior Hockey League’s Surrey Knights. So, when team owner John Craighead heard about our team, he went above and beyond to make sure they felt welcome.

The Knights opened their private dressing room to our young athletes. They made personalized name bars to be placed above each player’s stall. And best of all, Knights players were on hand for each weekly practice to mentor and guide our participants.

The Surrey Stingrays have been part of the CAN hockey program for a number of years.

The CAN Surrey Stingrays faced off against their mentors, the Surrey Knights Junior B Team.

So of course, on the day of the CAN Hockey Jamboree, Knights players joined each of our four teams on the ice for their scrimmage.

“Individuals on the spectrum often face barriers to participation in sports & rec,” said Romdoul Long, CAN Program Coordinator & event organizer.

“So to see three different groups from the City of Surrey community come together to support our participants – what an incredible way to celebrate acceptance on World Autism Day.”

On behalf of all 60+ families in attendance at the CAN Hockey Jamboree, thank you to Sport Surrey, the City of Surrey, Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society and the Surrey Knights.

I have always been very open and honest about my diagnosis because it is a part of who I am. I don’t want to have to hide this part of myself in order for others to accept me.

It’s not something I feel anyone should have to do. That is why I wanted to be a part of this video that challenges the wider community to be more accepting and supportive of people on the spectrum.

Through sharing my story, I hope that more people on the spectrum will be inspired to speak their truth and support the movement from awareness to acceptance. By incorporating autism acceptance into my life, I have felt more comfortable interacting with neurotypical individuals. I don’t feel as much of a need to hide my autism. I am also starting to get to a place where I can openly speak about my struggles with my friends and family.

As a writer who has written two books on autism spectrum disorder, I feel as though I am better able to express myself through written output. Sometimes when I am speaking to other people, the words get jumbled up in my head and I have trouble forming sentences even though I know what I would like to say. I believe that we all have a story to tell and that our voice should be heard and not silenced. I am constantly learning how to be comfortable with sharing my stories with other people. I feel as though writing brings out the best and helps me and helps me hone my creative skills. I am able to speak honestly about how I feel, and this is something, which I have trouble doing verbally.

Visit kearafarnan.com to learn more about her self-published book I Only See in Black & White.

It’s taken me years to accept my autism diagnosis and I think it’s because I didn’t really understand myself when I was younger. I wasn’t sure why I would get angry with other people if they didn’t want to be my friend, and these negative thoughts would often lead to depression. I tried to switch to a more positive way of thinking and tell myself that it wasn’t my fault if other people didn’t want to hang out with me or get to know me. But, still the hurt and animosity would catch up to me.

I didn’t know how to handle these emotions and I didn’t understand why I was feeling this way. It’s taken me 26 years to learn to accept myself and come to terms with my autism diagnosis. However, sometimes I have bad days where I feel as though nothing is going right, and those around me don’t understand how I am feeling. My life is not perfect and I don’t think it’s ever going to be and this is something I have learned to accept.

Practicing autism acceptance has become a huge part of my daily routine. I encourage other individuals on the spectrum to practice autism acceptance as well. But more importantly, I encourage the community at large to choose acceptance.

Through writing and telling my story, I hope that I can inspire other autistic individuals to become more comfortable with their diagnosis. I believe that everyone is unique and special in their own way, and this is something I wish I would have come to realize earlier in life. Autism doesn’t define who I am as an individual, but it’s a small part of who I am. And a part that I am proud of.

-Keara Farnan

Meridian Farm Market | April
Across Lower Mainland

This Lower Mainland chain of grocery stores has been a CAN supporter and champion of inclusive employment for years. Hosting annual Autism Acceptance Month fundraisers since 2015, Meridian Farm Market & Ralph’s Farm Market has raised an all-time total of $81,000. This year, they want to surpass the $100k mark!

$1 from item sales: Meridian Tortilla Chips, Pound of Wings, Rice Crispy Squares, and Fresh Blueberries
Locations: Mission, Maple Ridge, Port Coquitlam, Langley, White Rock, Tsawwassen, North Vancouver. Find a store near you
BBQ Fundraiser: To cap off the month-long campaign, Meridian Farm Market is hosting a BBQ on April 30th from 11am-2pm at their Ralph’s Farm Market (22728 Fraser Highway) location. Enjoy food, prizes, an auction, the best smokies in town, and amazing sale prices in store! All are welcome!

Papa John’s | April
Online & across BC

Run by a CAN family, the King George Blvd location has a long history supporting the cause. Most recently, they have hosted work experience placements for CAN participants in our employment programs. Now, all Papa John’s BC locations are coming together in celebration of Autism Acceptance Month!

$1 from 2-Medium 3-Topping Pizza Combos: Combo can be bought for delivery or pick up at the Papa John’s throughout the month of April will go to CAN! Order now using code CANPIZZA.
Location: All BC Locations (except Fort St. John)

Moody Ales | April
Port Moody

This April, stop by the Moody Ales tasting room in Port Moody and know that a portion of sales will support CAN! Moody Ales is part of the ever-popular Brewer’s Row. Two years ago, the community of breweries launched the limited-edition Hat Trick Ale with proceeds benefiting CAN. Brewer’s Row has also been annual participants in our CAN Pro-Am Hockey Tournament, presented by Hudson Pacific Properties.

1% of all pint sales: Patrons can also donate directly to CAN onsite.
Location: 2601 Murray St, Port Moody
Hours: Sun 12pm-10pm; Mon-Wed 1pm-9pm, Thu 12pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 12pm-11pm

Zyia Active | April
Online

Based out of the Okanagan, Paige Ternoway is an Education Assistant who has worked with countless CAN participants first-hand. As a representative of ZYIA Active, Paige and her team donate proceeds from their sales annually to CAN!

Location: Online
Active wear sales: For the entire month of April, Paige is donating 10% of her proceeds to CAN! Shop now!

U-Lock Mini Storage | March – June
Across BC

U-Lock is strongly committed to giving back to their communities through volunteer work, charitable donations, and community event sponsorships.

5% of moving supplies and merch sales: Moving supplies and merchandise can be purchased at any location! Valid from March 1-June 30, 2022.
Locations: In store. Use their Store Locator to find a store near you

Uno Gelato | Sat, Apr 2
Vancouver

Back in November 2020, Uno Gelato donated 10% of sales to CAN! In celebration of World Autism Day on Sat, Apr 2, they will be collecting in-store donations, while offering a FREE scoop to anyone who shows up in CAN merch (ie a shirt, sweater, hat – anything with a CAN logo on it!) or any CAN participant who presents their membership card.

Locations: Kitsilano (2579 West Broadway) & Convention Centre (#36-1055 Canada Place)
Saturday Hours: 12-9pm Full location & hours info

Pacific Northwest Raffle | April 15-30
Online

Enjoy a weekend away in Tofino while decked out in West Coast staples, including Arc’teryx jackets and Vessi shoes!

Prize Pack: Win a gift card for a two-night stay at Crystal Cove Tofino, plus VSSL camp supplies, two Arc’teryx jackets, and two pairs of Vessi shoes!
Raffle: Buy a ticket for $5, three for $10 or ten for $20. Enter by Sat, April 30 at 10 PM.
Location: Buy tickets online.

Must be 19+ and within BC.

Recent Initiatives

Herbaland | March 24 – 31

This Richmond-based vitamin and supplement producer is a proud CAN supporter. For the past two years, they have been the presenting sponsor for the Canucks’ Annual Autism Acceptance Game at Rogers Arena! Last April, Herbaland raised $8,000 for CAN! This year, Herbaland ran their fundraiser during the lead up to April.

Locations: Online and in store. Use their Store Locator to find a store near you
Merch and Gummy Sales: 20% of online sales from March 24-31 went directly to CAN!

Author: harold

Beginning January 2023, CAN swim will transition from its alignment with the Canadian Red Cross to the new Lifesaving Society format.

Key transition takeaways:

Beyond CAN swim:

Ready to dive in? See which CAN swim programs are being offered in your community in the Program Guide!

Further reading

Hosted at Kitsch Wines this past May, the event succeeded in raising an event record of $235,000!

To top it off, event participants heard from Evan Noble, a 24-year-old on the autism spectrum.

One of the most common barriers that Autistic youth and adults face is the need for a formal autism diagnosis to access supports.

“I almost didn’t get a diagnosis. The cost and fact that it was a late diagnosis would have been barriers if not for having an amazing counselor at the time,” Kayla shared.

Get involved! Sign up for our youth & adult newsletter >

Questions? Email youthandadults@canucksautism.ca

Held this past April 2 at the Surrey Sport & Leisure Complex, the event was an opportunity for CAN Hockey participants and their families to close out the season in style.

While the celebration was generously funded by Sport Surrey, the City of Surrey’s involvement with CAN extends far beyond this one-day event.

“So to see three different groups from the City of Surrey community come together to support our participants – what an incredible way to celebrate acceptance on World Autism Day.”

Further reading

I have always been very open and honest about my diagnosis because it is a part of who I am. I don’t want to have to hide this part of myself in order for others to accept me.

Practicing autism acceptance has become a huge part of my daily routine. I encourage other individuals on the spectrum to practice autism acceptance as well. But more importantly, I encourage the community at large to choose acceptance.

Further reading:

Throughout the evening, the Canucks put the spotlight on CAN participants and the importance of supporting and including individuals on the spectrum in our community.

Looking for ways to support the cause, while commemorating the event?

Further reading

Meridian Farm Market | April
Across Lower Mainland

Papa John’s | April
Online & across BC

Moody Ales | April
Port Moody

Zyia Active | April
Online

U-Lock Mini Storage | March – June
Across BC

Uno Gelato | Sat, Apr 2
Vancouver

Pacific Northwest Raffle | April 15-30
Online

Recent Initiatives

Herbaland | March 24 – 31

Beginning January 2023, CAN swim will transition from its alignment with the Canadian Red Cross to the new Lifesaving Society format.

Key transition takeaways:

Beyond CAN swim:

Ready to dive in? See which CAN swim programs are being offered in your community in the Program Guide!

Further reading

Hosted at Kitsch Wines this past May, the event succeeded in raising an event record of $235,000!

To top it off, event participants heard from Evan Noble, a 24-year-old on the autism spectrum.

One of the most common barriers that Autistic youth and adults face is the need for a formal autism diagnosis to access supports.

“I almost didn’t get a diagnosis. The cost and fact that it was a late diagnosis would have been barriers if not for having an amazing counselor at the time,” Kayla shared.

Get involved! Sign up for our youth & adult newsletter >

Questions? Email youthandadults@canucksautism.ca

Held this past April 2 at the Surrey Sport & Leisure Complex, the event was an opportunity for CAN Hockey participants and their families to close out the season in style.

While the celebration was generously funded by Sport Surrey, the City of Surrey’s involvement with CAN extends far beyond this one-day event.

“So to see three different groups from the City of Surrey community come together to support our participants – what an incredible way to celebrate acceptance on World Autism Day.”

Further reading

I have always been very open and honest about my diagnosis because it is a part of who I am. I don’t want to have to hide this part of myself in order for others to accept me.

Practicing autism acceptance has become a huge part of my daily routine. I encourage other individuals on the spectrum to practice autism acceptance as well. But more importantly, I encourage the community at large to choose acceptance.

Further reading:

Throughout the evening, the Canucks put the spotlight on CAN participants and the importance of supporting and including individuals on the spectrum in our community.

Looking for ways to support the cause, while commemorating the event?

Further reading

Meridian Farm Market | April Across Lower Mainland

Papa John’s | April Online & across BC

Moody Ales | April Port Moody

Zyia Active | April Online

U-Lock Mini Storage | March – June Across BC

Uno Gelato | Sat, Apr 2 Vancouver

Pacific Northwest Raffle | April 15-30 Online

Recent Initiatives

Herbaland | March 24 – 31

Meridian Farm Market | April
Across Lower Mainland

Papa John’s | April
Online & across BC

Moody Ales | April
Port Moody

Zyia Active | April
Online

U-Lock Mini Storage | March – June
Across BC

Uno Gelato | Sat, Apr 2
Vancouver

Pacific Northwest Raffle | April 15-30
Online