Autism Resources Archives - Canucks Autism Network

Continued partnership between Canucks Autism Network, Vancouver International Airport, and the Air Canada Foundation increases accessibility for autism community

Richmond, B.C. – Today, individuals on the autism spectrum and their families took part in this year’s first YVR Autism Aviation Days event. The collaborative initiative between Canucks Autism Network (CAN), Vancouver International Airport (YVR), and the Air Canada Foundation includes three single-day events during the month of May.

YVR Autism Aviation Days provides an opportunity for attendees to rehearse the entire pre-flight process in a highly-supported environment. The practice run includes checking-in, going through security screening, boarding an Air Canada Express aircraft for a simulated pre-flight experience, and, for the first time this year, a short taxi in the airplane.

The three events will welcome a total of 180 attendees – ranging from families with children and youth on the autism spectrum to Autistic adults looking for experience to travel independently.

“With an estimated 1 in 30 children and youth on the autism spectrum in B.C., events such as these are vital to increasing accessibility and inclusion,” said Sarah Armstrong, Director of Strategic Partnerships with Canucks Autism Network (CAN). “Airport ‘rehearsals’ can greatly benefit Autistic individuals and their families by increasing predictability and decreasing stress.”

The initiative began between CAN and YVR in 2014. After 10 years, the events have made a positive difference for more than 500 individuals.

“Travel is essential to maintaining human connections, expanding our experiences, and accessing essential services. By offering neurodiverse individuals and their families the chance to rehearse the pre-flight process, we open doors to important travel possibilities,” stated Tamara Vrooman, President and CEO of Vancouver International Airport. “We are proud to partner with CAN and Air Canada to create these experiences and thank the many government agencies and businesses at the airport for their support with this initiative.”

“Travelling should be accessible to everyone, and we are proud to help make that possible through initiatives like this with the help of our employees at Air Canada and of our partner, Jazz Aviation LP,” said Valerie Durand, Spokesperson for the Air Canada Foundation. “In bringing these simulated pre-flight experiences to fruition again, this time in Vancouver, for children with autism and their families, we hope they can develop the confidence and comfort to take that much anticipated trip together soon.”

“We believe in providing accessible and inclusive travel experiences for everyone,” said Kirk Newhook, Vice President of Employee Relations and Operations Support at Jazz Aviation LP. “Jazz is proud to take an important role in providing these experiences to families through our participating flight and cabin crew members, and those contributing behind the scenes of this initiative, which also serves as a learning opportunity for Jazz on supporting diverse travellers.”

In addition to the rehearsal, each family receives a YVR Sensory Resource Kit, which includes noise-cancelling headphones, an airport map, and check-list to support Autistic travellers or anyone with sensory sensitivities. The kit is available year-round from any pre-security YVR Customer Care counter.

More information and select digital resources can also be accessed at Accessibility Travel Resources | YVR.

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About Canucks Autism Network (CAN)
Canucks Autism Network (CAN) provides programs to individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, while promoting acceptance and inclusion through community engagement and training initiatives across BC and beyond. For more information, visit canucksautism.ca.

Canucks Autism Network (CAN) Media Contact
Lindsay Petrie
Director, Marketing and Communications
lindsay.petrie@canucksautism.ca

About Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is a diverse global hub that connects people, cargo, data, and ideas and serves as a platform for our community to come together and thrive. We are motivated by supporting regional economic development and making a positive difference in the lives of British Columbians. We do this with a focus on serving our passengers, partners, workers, and community through digital modernization, climate leadership, reconciliation, and financial sustainability.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) Media Contact
YVR Media Relations
media_relations@yvr.ca

About Air Canada Foundation
The Air Canada Foundation, a not-for-profit organization focused on the health and well-being of children and youth, was launched in 2012. It offers both financial and in-kind support to Canadian-registered charities. Core programs include the Hospital Transportation Program, which redistributes Aeroplan points to 15 pediatric hospitals across Canada, enabling sick children to access the medical care they need away from home. The Air Canada Foundation, in collaboration with the airline, also engages directly in fundraising activities such as the Every Bit Counts program, which encourages customers to donate loose change of all denominations on board flights or through collection containers available in Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges. The Foundation also offers continued support to major health-related causes that benefit Canadians and is an active participant in international humanitarian relief activity as the need arises. For more information about the Air Canada Foundation, please read the 2022 impact report or the Air Canada’s 2022 Corporate Sustainability report available at www.aircanada.com/citizensoftheworld.

Air Canada Foundation Media Contact
media@aircanada.ca

Continued partnership between Canucks Autism Network, Victoria International Airport and the Air Canada Foundation increases airport accessibility for the second straight year.

VICTORIA, B.C. – This past April 21 and 28, families with children and youth on the autism spectrum took part in Autism Aviation Day at Victoria International Airport (YYJ). Coinciding with Autism Acceptance Month, the initiative is a collaborative effort between the Canucks Autism Network (CAN), YYJ, and Air Canada Foundation.

Now in its second year, YYJ Autism Aviation Days provides an opportunity for attendees to rehearse the entire pre-flight process in a highly-supported environment. The practice run included checking-in, going through security screening, boarding an Air Canada Express aircraft for a simulated pre-flight experience, and a short taxi in the airplane.

“Airport ‘rehearsals’ can greatly benefit Autistic individuals and their families by increasing predictability and decreasing stress,” said Sarah Armstrong, Director of Strategic Partnerships with Canucks Autism Network (CAN). “With an estimated 1 in 30 children and youth on the autism spectrum in B.C., events such as these are vital to increasing accessibility and inclusion in the Greater Victoria region and beyond.”

Last year, the inaugural YYJ Autism Aviation Day accommodated 50 individuals with many more waitlisted. This past month, CAN, YYJ, and Air Canada Foundation were able to welcome over twice as many families.

“Victoria International Airport (YYJ) was once again very pleased to be part of YYJ Autism Aviation Day along with the Air Canada Foundation and the Canucks Autism Network (CAN),” said Rod Hunchak, Director, Business Development and Community Relations. “Hosting this tour for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families to practice the airport experience while working with CAN has been a very gratifying experience for us. The event serves as a learning experience for the families and the airport and its service partners. We are committed to continuing our efforts to identify and remove barriers for people with disabilities and assist travellers to feel more comfortable and at ease when visiting our airport.”

“The wonder of travel should be accessible to everyone, and we are proud to help make that possible through initiatives like this”, said Valerie Durand, Spokesperson for the Air Canada Foundation. “By engaging our employees at Air Canada and those of our partner, Jazz Aviation LP, in bringing these simulated pre-flight experiences to fruition again for children on the autism spectrum and their families, we hope they can develop the confidence and comfort to take that much anticipated trip together soon.”

“We believe in providing accessible and inclusive travel experiences for everyone,” said Kirk Newhook, Vice President of Employee Relations and Operations Support at Jazz Aviation LP. “Jazz is proud to take an important role in providing these experiences to families through our employees at Victoria airport, the participating flight and cabin crew members, and those contributing behind the scenes of this initiative, which also serves as a learning opportunity for Jazz on supporting diverse travellers.”

In addition to the rehearsal, each family also received a YYJ Sensory Resource Kit, which includes noise-cancelling headphones and fidget toys to support Autistic travelers or anyone with sensory sensitivities. The resource is available year-round from the Customer Service desk, located in departures.

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Canucks Autism Network (CAN) Media Contact
Lindsay Petrie
Director, Marketing and Communications
lindsay.petrie@canucksautism.ca • 604-788-8565

About Victoria Airport Authority (YYJ)
Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is the 11th busiest airport in Canada and has been rated one of the top ten most-loved airports in the world by CNN Travel. Winner of the Best Regional Airport in North America award by Airports Council International in 2012, 2014, and 2020, YYJ provides a safe, secure, sustainable, and efficient airport that creates prosperity for our region by connecting Greater Victoria with the world. Victoria Airport Authority (VAA) has managed the operations at YYJ on behalf of the surrounding communities since April 1, 1997.

Victoria Airport Authority (YYJ) Media Contact
Rod Hunchak
Director, Business Development and Community Relations
250-953-7514

About Air Canada Foundation
The Air Canada Foundation, a not-for-profit organization focused on the health and well-being of children and youth, was launched in 2012. It offers both financial and in-kind support to Canadian-registered charities. Core programs include the Hospital Transportation Program, which redistributes Aeroplan points to 15 pediatric hospitals across Canada, enabling sick children to access the medical care they need away from home. The Air Canada Foundation, in collaboration with the airline, also engages directly in fundraising activities, such as the Every Bit Counts program, which encourages customers to donate loose change of all denominations on board flights or through collection containers available in Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges. The Foundation also offers continued support to major health-related causes that benefit Canadians and is an active participant in international humanitarian relief activity as the need arises. For more information about the Air Canada Foundation, please read the 2020-21 impact report or the Air Canada’s 2021 Corporate Sustainability report available at www.aircanada.com/citizensoftheworld.

The Vancouver Canucks are off to their best start in franchise history! And on Monday evening, the Canucks Autism Network (CAN) community will take centre stage as the Canucks take on the San Jose Sharks at Rogers Arena.

📅 Mon, Nov 20, 7pm 📺 Sportsnet Pacific 📻 Sportsnet 650

The game will continue the Canucks’ annual celebration of autism acceptance. In previous years, the game was traditionally held during Autism Acceptance Month in April. But at CAN, we promote acceptance and inclusion every day, so we are proud to join the Canucks in this celebration this coming Monday!

The Canucks will feature a number of children, youth & adults on the autism spectrum at the mic & on the ice:

PA announcer Ryan Chilton will be back in the booth.
Professional singer Miriah Reitmeier will perform ‘O Canada’.
Players from the CAN Hockey program will be featured at ice level as part of the Rogers Every Kid’s Dream & Toyota Junior Trainer programs.

Both Ryan and Miriah are returning talents who have been part of the annual celebrations in previous years.

“It’s #AutismAcceptance Night. I’ve got my mic right here and getting ready to see you all in the stands!”

🎙 Ryan @Chilli_Chilton back for a 3rd year on the PA for the #Canucks annual celebration! pic.twitter.com/MNSboF4GUe

— Canucks Autism Network (@canucksautism) April 3, 2022

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Canucks Autism Network (@canucksautism)

The evening will also feature a range of individuals from the CAN community who have been instrumental in our participants’ successes.

Shawn Saran is a CAN dad whose family has raised tens of thousands of dollars over the years through annual bottle drives. On Monday evening, he will be cranking the BCLC Community Hero siren.

VIDEO: Huge turnout at Murrayville family’s bottle drive for autism

And as in previous years, CAN CEO Britt Andersen will be interviewed on the Sportsnet Pacific telecast during intermission.

See highlights from the April 2023 game:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vancouver Canucks (@canucks)

In addition to featuring CAN, the Canucks continue to offer accessibility resources to any fans who may benefit.

In 2019, Rogers Arena became the first Canadian NHL stadium to introduce comprehensive autism accessibility resources for all games and events.

These include noise-cancelling headphones (on loan), sensory toys and a quiet room available upon request. For Canucks games specifically, fans can also benefit from an activity storybook and game timeline to increase expectations on the game day experience.

For full details, please visit the Canucks’ autism accessibility page.

Looking for ways to support the cause through the game?

Proceeds from Canucks 50/50 benefit CAN & a range of other deserving charities.
Fans can buy tickets in-game and online.
Or make a donation directly to CAN!
Visit canucksautism.ca/donate.

A huge thank you to entire Canucks organization for celebrating autism acceptance and for supporting the cause year-round. It is because of them that we can continue our work across BC and beyond.

Vancouver, BC – Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is thrilled to announce that the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions (“the Province”) has awarded CAN a one-time grant of $540,000 to support solutions that address mental health barriers faced by Autistic youth and adults in British Columbia.

Enhancing supports for individuals living with mental-health and substance-use needs is an integral part of A Pathway to Hope, the B.C. government’s roadmap for building mental health and addictions care more available in our health care system, for everyone in British Columbia. a comprehensive system of mental-health and addictions care for British Columbians.

“We are proud of the positive change we have created in the area of mental health supports for Autistic youth and adults, but there is so much more work to be done,” said CAN CEO Britt Andersen. “This crucial funding will allow us to begin to address the enormous need in the community.”

“When Autistic people reach out, they need resources that meet their unique needs,” said Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction. “Investing in organizations like the Canucks Autism Network reflects our government’s commitment to addressing the gaps in support that Autistic people and their families face, so we can build a stronger, more inclusive future for everyone in B.C.”

In line with the Government ‘s Pathway to Hope priority actions, CAN has identified various steps that can be immediately actioned to address mental health barriers faced by Autistic individuals.

CAN completed extensive research and consultation with clinical professionals and the Autistic community to better understand the unmet need and major obstacles facing Autistic individuals.

Critical findings include:

Autistic youth and adults are seven times more likely to attempt suicide and are at a greater risk of substance misuse and addiction than non-Autistic people
66% of newly diagnosed Autistic adults have reported feeling suicidal
Roughly 70% of Autistic people experience at least one co-occurring mental health issue

Major barriers that Autistic individuals face when attempting to access mental health services include cost, ineligibility due to their diagnosis, a lack of autism-informed clinicians, and long waitlists for those with autism training.

CAN has already begun addressing the mental health challenges faced by Autistic youth and adults by introducing a stream of Mental Health & Wellness programs that encourage participants to explore their own mental health, improve their overall wellness, and connect with their community.

Programs and workshops have been developed and led by a combination of CAN staff, community partners, clinicians, self-advocates, and facilitators with lived experience and focus on areas such as emotional expression, social connection, peer support, healthy sleeping, healthy boundaries, healthy eating, and healthy relationships and sexuality.

According to Kayla Tellier, CAN Women’s Peer Support Group Facilitator, being able to talk to someone with lived experience can make all the difference.

“Peer groups like CAN’s Women’s Group help Autistic people feel more comfortable sharing and connecting because the group is led by someone who may have personally experienced some of their struggles and will listen without judgment,” explains Kayla. “Hearing that you aren’t the only one who going through something can be really helpful, especially when other Neurodivergent individuals share strategies that worked for them. It can be a lot more helpful than being given strategies meant for a typical individual.”

CAN has also taken steps to begin to address barriers Autistic youth and adults face in the community and workplace when attempting to access mental health supports.

The following initiatives are already underway or in development:

Partnering with Foundry BC to develop training for Foundry frontline staff and Peer Support Workers around strategies and best practices for supporting Autistic youth
Developing online modules such as Supporting Autistic Mental Health in the Workplace designed to help employers understand the needs of Autistic employees, and practical supports to increase mental health in the workplace
Providing increased Suicide Intervention and Mental Health training to frontline CAN Youth and Adult Staff
Delivering live training to the BC Crisis Centre to equip staff with the necessary skills and strategies to support Autistic youth and adults in crisis situations

“The Crisis Centre of BC worked with Canucks Autism Network to tailor a workshop for our training/education and distress services teams,” shared Lu Ripley, Director, Community Learning & Engagement. “Our staff found the session to be beneficial, relevant, and practical. Staff have readily applied the knowledge and skills gained to their work to help better meet the needs of attendees and/or callers on the autism spectrum.”

The funding will enable CAN to make an even greater impact through the following initiatives:

Expansion of the delivery and development of Autism Informed Mental Health Training for Mental Health Workers in the community
Creation of Autism Informed Crisis Response Resources and more training in the community
Increase in offerings for youth and adults in need of 1:1 mental health supports
Expansion of Introductory Wellness Programs and Peer-Led Support Groups

For more information about CAN’s current portfolio of mental health and wellness offerings, please visit canucksautism.ca/mentalhealth.

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For media inquiries: Lindsay Petrie, CAN Director of Marketing & Communications
lindsay.petrie@canucksautism.ca

Photo credit: Air Canada/Célian Genier

Canucks Autism Network partners with YYJ & Air Canada Foundation for Autism Aviation Day

Victoria, BC – On April 29, 2023, Victoria International Airport (YYJ) and Air Canada Foundation welcomed over 50 individuals from the Canucks Autism Network (CAN) community for Autism Aviation Day.

Rounding out April as Autism Acceptance Month, the event provided an opportunity for children and youth on the autism spectrum and their families to rehearse the entire pre-flight process. The practice run included checking-in, going through security, and boarding an Air Canada aircraft for a simulated pre-flight experience.

Airport ‘rehearsals’ can greatly benefit individuals on the autism spectrum and their families by increasing predictability and decreasing stress. With 1 in 29 children and youth on the autism spectrum in BC, the initiative seeks to increase autism accessibility.

“Our vision is for every individual on the autism spectrum to be understood, accepted, and supported in all community spaces,” said Hallie Mitchell, CAN’s Director of Training and Community Engagement. “We are thrilled to partner with YYJ and the Air Canada Foundation to open up a world of travel opportunities for the autism community.”

CAN’s new partnership with YYJ builds off the success of similar initiatives launched with both Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Kelowna International Airport (YLW).

“Victoria International Airport (YYJ) was very pleased to be part of YYJ Autism Day along with the Air Canada Foundation and Canucks Autism Network (CAN),” said Rod Hunchak, Director, Business Development and Community Relations. “Hosting this tour for individuals on the spectrum and their families to practice the airport experience and working with CAN has been a very gratifying educational experience for us. We are committed to continuing our work at the airport to identify and remove barriers for persons with disabilities and make travel accessible for all.”

“We know experiences like this help individuals on the autism spectrum develop the confidence to travel by air. Employees at Air Canada and Jazz Aviation LP spearheaded this initiative to make the magic of travel accessible for everyone,” said Valerie Durand, Spokesperson for the Air Canada Foundation. “80% of the individuals on the autism spectrum on board during the rehearsal were children, and as a Foundation committed to the health and well-being of kids, we couldn‘t be more proud to support this event. I know our colleagues at Air Canada and Jazz enjoyed welcoming them on board!”

The event also represented the launch of an Autism Resource Kit that attending families and all future travelers will be able to access ahead of any departing flight from YYJ airport. Developed in partnership with CAN, the kit features noise cancelling headphones and sensory items to help reduce anxiety.

This partnered initiative from CAN, YYJ, and the Air Canada Foundation is also delivered with support from AutismBC, Travel with Ange, Beaches Resorts, Royal Caribbean & Visit Huntington Beach.

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CAN Media Contact
Lindsay Petrie, Director of Marketing & Communications
lindsay.petrie@canucksautism.ca

About Victoria Airport Authority (YYJ)
Victoria Airport Authority is a not-for-profit authority that has managed the safe and secure operations of the Victoria International Airport on behalf of the surrounding communities since April 1, 1997.

YYJ Media Contact
Rod Hunchak; Director, Business Development and Community Relations
250-953-7514

About the Air Canada Foundation
The Air Canada Foundation, a not-for-profit organization focused on the health and well-being of children and youth, was launched in 2012. It offers both financial and in-kind support to Canadian-registered charities. Core programs include the Hospital Transportation Program, which redistributes Aeroplan points to 15 pediatric hospitals across Canada, enabling sick children to access the medical care they need away from home. The Air Canada Foundation, in collaboration with the airline, also engages directly in fundraising activities, such as the Every Bit Counts program, which encourages customers to donate loose change of all denominations on board flights or through collection containers available in Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges. The Foundation also offers continued support to major health-related causes that benefit Canadians and is an active participant in international humanitarian relief activity as the need arises. For more information about the Air Canada Foundation, please read the 2020-21 impact report or the Air Canada’s 2021 Corporate Sustainability report available at www.aircanada.com/citizensoftheworld.

Additional news

Together with Air North, YVR and Canucks Autism Network are back with our Autism Accessibility Tour

Foundry and Canucks Autism Network Offer New Youth Peer Support Training Initiative

Canucks Autism Network to Deliver Vital Autism Training Across Sectors in Nelson BC

As we get ready to celebrate World Autism Day, the Canucks Autism Network (CAN) community will take centre stage as the Canucks take on the Los Angeles Kings tomorrow evening.

📅 Sun, Apr 2, 5pm 📺 Sportsnet Pacific 📻 Sportsnet 650

Since 2008, the Vancouver Canucks and Canucks For Kids Fund have been our biggest supporters. It was 15 years ago that CAN was founded by Paolo and Clara Aquilini, whose son Christian is on the autism spectrum.

In our earlier years, we focused on providing sports & rec opportunities for children. Since then, we’ve grown up alongside our participants to offer a range of employment, mental health & leisure programs for Autistic youth & adults, as well. Beyond our programs, CAN’s training initiatives seek to increase capacity to support and include Autistic individuals across community spaces.

Sunday afternoon will be a celebration of inclusion & acceptance, featuring a number of children & adults on the autism spectrum:

PA announcer Ryan Chilton will be back at the mic.
Professional singer Miriah Reitmeier will perform both national anthems.
CAN hockey players Gavin, Ben & Makayla will be featured at ice level as part of the Rogers Every Kid’s Dream & Toyota Junior Trainer programs.

Ryan Chilton, Miriah Reitmeier with Daniel Sedin and Nish Lal with Christian Aquilini

Ryan is an adult on the spectrum who originally co-emceed our 2014 CAN Sports Day with the “voice of the Canucks” – Al Murdoch. Since then, Ryan’s skills have flourished and he is currently the official PA announcer for the BCHL Coquitlam Express.

Based out of Surrey, Miriah Reitmeier is a professional singer who has previously sang the anthem at the Canucks’ Autism Acceptance Game in 2011 and CAN Sports Day in 2014.

“As a singer living with autism, I want to inspire others in the autism community to pursue their dreams and passions in the performing arts.” -Miriah

Meanwhile, Gavin, Ben and Makayla are all athletes on the autism spectrum who have honed their skills in the CAN hockey program.

The afternoon will also feature a range of individuals from the CAN community who have been instrumental in our participants’ successes.

Nish Lal is a longtime CAN program staff who was one of our very first volunteers back in 2008. With unparalleled enthusiasm and genuine care for each participant he encounters, he is recognized by the CAN community across the Lower Mainland. Tomorrow afternoon, he will be cranking the BCLC Community Hero siren.

CAN CEO Britt Andersen will be interviewed on both the Sportsnet Pacific telecast and the Sportsnet 650 airwaves during intermission. Meanwhile, CAN Director of Marketing & Communications Lindsay Petrie will speak about the cause during an in-game interview broadcasted on the jumbotron.

See highlights from the 2022 game:

In addition to featuring CAN, the Canucks continue to offer accessibility resources to any fans who may benefit.

In 2019, Rogers Arena became the first Canadian NHL stadium to introduce comprehensive autism accessibility resources for all games and events.

For full details, please visit the Canucks’ autism accessibility page.

Looking for ways to support the cause through the game?

Proceeds from Canucks 50/50 benefit CAN & a range of other deserving charities.
Fans can buy tickets in-game and online.
Or make a donation directly to CAN!
Visit canucksautism.ca/donate.

A huge thank you to entire Canucks organization for celebrating autism acceptance and for supporting the cause year-round. It is because of them that we can continue our work across BC and beyond.

More News & Stories

Government of B.C. awards $540,000 to Canucks Autism Network in support of mental health initiatives for Autistic individuals

CAN removes diagnosis barrier for youth & adults to access programs

“Mom, I’m really happy today.”

NELSON, B.C.– In an effort to build capacity in BC communities with fewer autism resources, Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is heading to Nelson to provide autism training to four key community sectors. CAN’s series of training workshops will take place from Saturday, April 30th to Sunday, May 1st, with workshops scheduled for educators, first responders, sports and recreation providers, and health practitioners.

The goal of the workshop series is to share knowledge and proven strategies for identifying and supporting individuals on the spectrum in the classroom, on the field, and across emergency and medical settings. The trainings will cover such topics as:

Introduction to Autism
Communication tips
Strategies for increasing predictability, reducing anxiety, and improving motivation.
Tips for successful inclusion
Usage of visual supports
Strategies to support positive behaviour

The workshops will take place at the Civic Theatre Nelson on the dates listed below:

Saturday, April 30 from 9am-12pm
For Educators, EAs and ECEs
Saturday, April 30 from 2pm-4pm
For First Responders
Sunday, May 1 from 9am-11am
For Sport and Recreation Providers
Sunday, May 1 from 1pm-3pm
For Health Practitioners

In addition to the training, attendees will be provided with free access to valuable resources including tip sheets and downloadable visual supports.

Taylor Sands, CAN Manager of Training and Workshop Presenter, is grateful to get the opportunity to share vital autism knowledge with a community that has limited access to autism support services.

“It’s so wonderful to see the City of Nelson taking action to better support, understand, and effectively include community members on the spectrum across a variety of settings”, said Taylor. “We’re thrilled to be able to build capacity for supporting Autistic individuals and we thank the local champions who have helped make this all happen.”

Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is considered a provincial leader in providing autism training to a variety of community-level groups across BC and beyond. To view all available workshops in Nelson, visit www.canucksautism.ca/nelson. CAN’s full suite of autism training and community engagement opportunities are available at www.canucksautism.ca/training.

About Canucks Autism Network (CAN)
Canucks Autism Network provides programs to individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, while promoting acceptance and inclusion through community engagement and training initiatives across BC and beyond.

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Media Contact
Taylor Sands, Manager of Training
Canucks Autism Network
taylor.sands@canucksautism.ca
604.685.4049 ext 236

April 25, 2022

Vancouver, B.C. – After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, we were thrilled to welcome back more than 100 participants for our annual Autism Accessibility Tour at YVR on Sunday, April 24, along with our airline partner, Air North, Yukon’s Airline.

With new travel measures in place, it is now more important than ever to be aware and informed before your next trip through YVR.

Our accessibility tour with CAN helps individuals on the autism spectrum and their families be prepared, confident, and comfortable with their travel experience at YVR. From check-in through security screening, to locating their departure gate and boarding, to a simulated take-off, the experiential tour provides autistic individuals and their families the opportunity to practice the entire pre-flight process.

Due to anxiety and sensory sensitivities, individuals on the autism spectrum can become overwhelmed by the airport environment. This tour works to decrease anxiety, reduce travel barriers, and build confidence by preparing them for what to expect, making the airport a less stressful and more predictable environment.

Here are 5 things to know about the YVR Autism Accessibility tour:

We welcomed more than 100 individuals to our sixth Annual YVR Autism Accessibility Tour.
We had some special firsts this year, including this marking our first accessibility tour since 2019 and partnering with Air North, Yukon’s Airline for the first time to deliver this important experience.
We work with a number of other key partners to deliver the YVR Autism Accessibility Tour. Special thanks to the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for their continued support.
We introduced the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard and sticker program for this tour. Set to officially launch in May during Accessibility Week, tour participants got a sneak peek of this expansion of the Autism Sticker Program, which is globally recognized and offers a more inclusive experience for all travellers who may have disabilities that may require extra care, compassion, and support.
At YVR, we continue to prioritize making travel through our airport safe, positive, comfortable, and accessible for everyone.

Visit yvr.ca/autism to find more information about the resources available for autistic individuals travelling through YVR.

Category: Autism Resources

The Canucks will feature a number of children, youth & adults on the autism spectrum at the mic & on the ice:

The evening will also feature a range of individuals from the CAN community who have been instrumental in our participants’ successes.

In addition to featuring CAN, the Canucks continue to offer accessibility resources to any fans who may benefit.

Looking for ways to support the cause through the game?

Further reading

Starting with our partnership with the Vancouver Canucks, Rogers Arena became the first Canadian NHL stadium to feature comprehensive autism accessibility in 2018.

Most importantly, the availability of sensory-friendly resources will continue at six NHL, AHL, WHL & BCHL arenas in 2023-24.

Further reading

Additional news

Sunday afternoon will be a celebration of inclusion & acceptance, featuring a number of children & adults on the autism spectrum:

The afternoon will also feature a range of individuals from the CAN community who have been instrumental in our participants’ successes.

In addition to featuring CAN, the Canucks continue to offer accessibility resources to any fans who may benefit.

Looking for ways to support the cause through the game?

Further reading

Additional Info

Here’s what we know:

More News & Stories