Category: Charity Events

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Mar 20, 2020

On February 1, the home of the Vancouver Canucks was transformed into a circus-style ‘big top’, for REVEAL, The Greatest Show on Earth, in support of Canucks Autism Network (CAN). Presented by BMO Bank of Montreal, the unforgettable gala dazzled some 566 guests with awe-inspiring circus acts, impressive culinary creations and show-stopping musical numbers.

But the true stars of the evening were the 15 CAN members of the Sarah McLachlan School of Music choir who performed a touching rendition of “This is Me” from The Greatest Showman.

Based on the reactions among the guests, it’s safe to say the choir’s five months of rehearsals paid off.

“These kids really touched me,” said CAN Founder Paolo Aquilini, when he later took the stage. “That is why we’re here. So that these kids can say ‘This is me’ with empowerment.”

The Good Doctor star Paige Spara and CAN Founder Paolo Aquilini react to the performance.

Gavin had the honour of singing the final solo. “I was a little nervous in front of all those people,” he said after the show. “But I remember everyone cheering after my part and it made me feel really proud of myself. I thought about my family and how my mom was going to have happy tears!”

The performance was an unforgettable moment that reminded all guests firsthand of the impact of their generous contributions.

But behind the scenes at Rogers Arena, something else truly magical transpired.

In preparation for their performance, the choir had arrived early for a rehearsal. With a few hours until show time, the group was designated one of the dressing rooms backstage.

Unstructured time and ‘waiting around’ can be difficult for any group of kids. But it can be especially difficult for those with autism. CAN staff and parents came ready with activities and a plan to keep the group occupied for the evening.

Anita Rudge was one of those parents.

And nearly two months after the Reveal Gala, she is still as excited about the performance as she is about what she witnessed backstage.

“I remember the rehearsal being stressful. But once we got backstage, the kids were joking with each other and laughing,” Anita recalled. “They were sharing their Nintendo Switches and playing board games. And for kids with autism, it can be so hard for them to engage socially.”

“It was one of the happiest moments of my life.”

One of CAN’s staff, Sarah Armstrong, was also in the room. “The group varied in age and background quite a bit, but they came together like any group of friends would,” said Sarah. “They were comforting each other before their big moment on stage. It was unforgettable.”

The four-minute performance featured two solos and one duet. Anita’s son, Jayden (right), had the opening solo. Gavin (left) had the final one.

If you look closely during Gavin’s solo, you’ll notice that Jayden is singing along word-for-word.

That’s because, right before the performance, Gavin had asked Jayden to sing along with him — just in case he forgot the words.

“As a mother, you want your kids to be kind and empathetic,” Anita said. “These kids loved and supported each other.”

On stage, Jadyen, Gavin and the entire choir proudly sang the words: “I’m not scared to be seen, I make no apologies – This is Me!”

The lyrics acted as a powerful reminder to guests that we need to increase understanding and acceptance of autism in the community at large.

The fact that so many people gave so generously at the Reveal Gala is cause for great hope.

But the moment that took place backstage provided profound hope of its own. It proved that a mutual love for music could bring a group of kids and youth with autism together.

And that in the process of singing for acceptance, the group found understanding among each other. That’s something you simply can’t put a dollar figure on.

“They were all hugging each other to say goodbye after the performance,” recalled Anita. “It was a room filled with so much love and understanding.”

“It gave me hope that if it can happen in that room, why not everywhere?”

Read more:

Finding Kai’s voice with CAN & Sarah McLachlan School of Music

Austin Dutt: A World Kindness Day story from Kelowna

Extending CAN’s impact in Nanaimo and Kamloops

Return to the CAN Blog

Learn more:

Learn more about the Reveal Gala

Learn more about the CAN & Sarah McLachlan School of Music program

Learn more about Sarah McLachlan School of Music

Dec 10, 2020

VANCOUVER, BC – The 2020 CAN Pro-Am Hockey Tournament, presented by Hudson Pacific Properties, is set to take place January 24-26 at UBC Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre. Now in its second year, the charity tournament is headlined by Vancouver Canucks legends Henrik Sedin, Daniel Sedin, Todd Bertuzzi, among a star-studded list of NHL Alumni. They will be joined by upwards of 20 rec and corporate teams for an unforgettable weekend of hockey in support of Canucks Autism Network (CAN).

The full list of former stars includes Brendan Morrison, Mason Raymond, Chris Higgins and Brad May with more to be announced as the tournament approaches. Teams must raise a minimum of $20,000 for CAN in order to participate and draft an NHL Alumni for the weekend. Individuals may also register for a fundraising minimum of $1,500. Limited spots remain; those interested can visit canproam.ca for full details.

The tournament weekend will also feature a Hotstove Luncheon, where hockey enthusiasts will enjoy an exclusive opportunity to hear from and mingle with NHL Alumni. Sportsnet will be moderating a pair of panels on-stage, revealing untold stories from the Sedins and Bertuzzi. Meanwhile, each table will be hosted by an NHL Alumni. Luncheon tickets are currently on sale ($300 per seat or $2000 per table of seven) at canproam.ca/luncheon.

“It’s a fun tournament. The top fundraising team gets to draft first overall, but it might not even be me or Henrik,” said Daniel Sedin in an interview with Official Media Partner Sportsnet 650. “It’s amazing what Canucks Autism Network does. There are so many families struggling with autism, so if we can raise a lot of money, it goes to a great cause.”

“It’s shocking actually – 1 in 46 children has autism and over 16,000 in BC alone,” Bertuzzi added in another Sportsnet 650 interview. “NHL Alumni come in and the interaction with players in the dressing room is second to none. As long as I’m with a charitable group and guys that like to have fun, I’m all in.”

Last year’s inaugural tournament raised over $575,000 in support of CAN and BC families living with autism. Event funds will support CAN’s vision for every individual with autism to be understood, accepted and supported in all community spaces.

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Media Inquiries:
Lindsay Petrie
Director of Marketing and Communications
Canucks Autism Network
lindsay.petrie@canucksautism.ca
604-788-8565 

ABOUT CANUCKS AUTISM NETWORK (CAN)
Founded by Vancouver Canucks Co-owners Paolo and Clara Aquilini in 2008, Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is dedicated to providing programs to individuals with autism and their families, while promoting acceptance and inclusion through community engagement and training initiatives across BC and beyond.

For more information, please visit canucksautism.ca.

Aug 23, 2019

Earlier this summer, everyone at the CAN Relay 4 Autism wanted to know.

Who. Was. Spiderman?

The first-ever CAN Relay 4 Autism invited families, supporters and the general public to Swangard Stadium for a day of fun, fitness and festivities.

Attendees were encouraged to come dressed in their best retro attire, superhero suit or whatever fun costume they had in their closet.

Even with a field full of games and activities, festival goers found their attention was repeatedly pulled back to the track where a certain masked crusader just kept running and running.

And running.

Beginning at around 10:30 in the morning and continuing well into the afternoon, the anonymous superhero completed 40 laps. That equates to 16km, in support of Canucks Autism Network.

In full costume. In the sweltering summer heat. Never once taking off his mask to reveal his true identity.

It wasn’t until after the event, that the mysterious masked marathoner revealed his true self.

Christian Bods Brown is an animator at Vancouver-based PIXOMONDO.

One of his coworkers Patricia de Souza, started a team for the CAN Relay at their office.

“I ran the BMO Vancouver Marathon earlier this year and I thought [the CAN Relay] was for a brilliant cause,” Christian shared with us. “So when Patricia invited us to participate, I wanted to get involved.”

Patricia’s family had just joined CAN last year – shortly after her son Silas received his diagnosis.

Patricia and her kids at the 2019 CAN Sports Day.

“Silas really loved the swimming,” Patricia told us. “The staff and volunteers are amazing. They are all so energetic and positive. We’ve had such a great experience so far, we wanted to give back.”

For six months, Patricia, Christian and their fundraising team at work collected cans and bottles.

“I kept bags under my desk and would bring them on the skytrain home with me,” Patricia shared with us.

Team members posted on social media, including Christian, who told his friends and family: “The more you donate, the farther I’ll run!’”

Patricia and Christian running for a cause at the CAN Relay 4 Autism.

In total, Christian, Patricia and Team PIXOMONDO raised $1,550!

Not all heroes wear a suit. But in this case, the costume was appropriate. Because without superhuman supporters like Christian and Patricia, who so eagerly give back, our programs and training initiatives simply would not exist.

Thank you to everyone who energetically supported us at the CAN Relay 4 Autism. We can’t wait to see you next year!

Want to get involved with Canucks Autism Network? Here’s 5 ways you CAN!

Burnaby, BC – On Saturday, July 20, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Canucks Autism Network (CAN) will host the first-ever CAN Relay 4 Autism at Swangard Stadium in Burnaby. The free family-friendly outdoor event will feature carnival games, bouncy castles, food trucks, live entertainment and a vendor marketplace. The relay portion of the event will invite attendees to run, walk, or wheel around the track, many of whom have been raising funds to support CAN’s programming and training initiatives across BC.

Key event components featuring individuals with autism:

  • National anthem to be performed by 9-year-old Jayden Weiss who has autism and was non-verbal just four years ago.
  • Event to be emceed by Ryan Chilton, a young adult with autism and guest PA announcer for the Vancouver Canucks.
  • On-stage performances by Sirota’s Alchymy Martial Arts, 13th Floor rock band and Mayday Youth Club Choir, all featuring performers with autism and other diagnoses.

Leading up to the event, relay participants committed to a target number of laps around the track and collected pledges from friends, family and co-workers to reach their fundraising goal. In addition to raising funds, the event aims to promote autism acceptance, understanding and inclusion in the community at large. A Sensory Friendly Space with reduced sensory input and noise-cancelling headphones will be available for anyone who may be feeling overwhelmed and in need of a quiet environment.

“Our vision at Canucks Autism Network is for every individual with autism to be understood, accepted and supported in all community spaces and this event is a public display of this commitment,” said Britt Andersen, CEO of Canucks Autism Network. “The CAN Relay 4 Autism will enable us to raise vital funds while celebrating the many capabilities and successes of individuals with autism. With 1 in 46 BC children now being diagnosed with autism, the need for support is greater than ever.”

Media are encouraged to enter through the south west corner of the stadium. CAN CEO Britt Andersen and select families living with autism will be available for interviews. Please RSVP to lindsay.petrie@canucksautism.ca and check in at the Media Check-In Tent upon arrival.

The CAN Relay 4 Autism is proudly sponsored by Vancouver International Airport (YVR), G&F Financial Group, Microsoft, Burnaby Fire Fighters Charitable Society, Colorific, Clark’s Audio Visual Services Ltd, Super Save Group, DJ Relly Rels, TableTutors DJ Academy and Party Works.

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ABOUT CANUCKS AUTISM NETWORK (CAN)
Founded by Vancouver Canucks Co-owners Paolo and Clara Aquilini in 2008, Canucks Autism Network (CAN) provides year-round sports and recreation programs for individuals and families living with autism, while increasing awareness and providing training in communities across British Columbia.

Since its inception in 2008, CAN has directly impacted over 4,700 individuals with autism province-wide.

ABOUT AUTISM
Autism is characterized by difficulties with social communication, sensory sensitivities and repetitive behaviour, as well as a wide range of individual strengths, interests and abilities.

  • 1 in 46 children in BC is diagnosed with autism.
  • There are over 16,000 children and youth with autism in BC alone.

FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Lindsay Petrie
Director of Marketing and Communications, Canucks Autism Network
P: 604-685-4049 ext 213
M: 604-788-8565
E: lindsay.petrie@canucksautism.ca

May 22, 2019

Terri Neish has been a CAN mother since 2010. In front of a room of 200+ guests, she delivered the following speech at the ICONNBC Shine A Light Gala in support of CAN (River Rock Casino in April 2019).

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My name is Terri Neish. My husband and I have a son and a daughter, both of whom have multiple diagnoses. My oldest, Ayden, is 13 years old and he has autism.

Our journey has included countless struggles. But because of generous donors who give to Canucks Autism Network (CAN), it has also included incredible triumphs.

We welcomed Ayden as a baby boy in May 2005. He was so perfect and beautiful. Like any new parents, we experienced sleepless nights and feeding struggles. But as time went on, we encountered some really unique challenges.

By 18 months, Ayden had just barely started crawling and spoke just half of a word — “wa-wa”, for water. As he continued to grow, he still couldn’t speak to us and would rather scream in frustration for all his needs. To this day, he still cannot truly tell us what he’s thinking.

After a long process in the public system, we received Ayden’s autism diagnosis just before he turned five.

With the diagnosis came a thick folder of instructions on accessing resources. We had so many dreams and desires for Ayden. Peer interactions. Social and physical development. The joy of sports that every child should have and is entitled to.

But we encountered so many organizations that turned Ayden away. I will never forget the day his pre-school asked him not to come back until they could find more support. He wasn’t violent. Believe me. He just wasn’t attentive.

In addition to autism, Ayden also ended up being diagnosed with Tourettes, sensory processing disorder and severe ADHD. He needed a lot of support in order to participate in the same things that a typical child could. But he deserved to experience the same joy that other children could.

It was overwhelming. I felt scared and completely alone.

Then our government case worker came along. She sat with us and passionately recommended Canucks Autism Network.

Her words exactly: “You HAVE to register Ayden for their programs.”

When the day came for Ayden’s first soccer session, I honestly don’t know who was more nervous. Him or me. I went through all the same fears that I had with other organizations that we had enrolled Ayden in.

“Are they going to accept him? What if they can’t support him? Are they going to turn us away too?”

But when our nervous little Ayden walked into the gym that first day, his world – our world – forever changed. He saw a group of children just like him on every level. He saw compassionate volunteers and trained coaches who could be assigned for just him — one on one.

When Ayden gets anxious, he flaps his arms or puts his hand to his mouth to rub his lips. He won’t make eye contact. As a young child, he would never go outside without this one specific hat and a fuzzy little bracelet. They were almost like his security blanket for whenever he was feeling uneasy.

These traits might seem strange to others, but the staff and volunteers at Canucks Autism Network accepted him for who he was. No judgement. Just unconditional inclusion.

Within five minutes of his first session, you could see his whole body language change. He wasn’t timid. He wasn’t flapping his arms as much. He wasn’t putting his hand up to his mouth. He took off that hat and bracelet.

 

For the first time, we truly saw our special guy open up and be comfortable with himself. Ayden went from an anxious little boy who would rarely tell us how he felt – to literally bouncing from excitement and talking about how fun CAN was.

I still lose my breath out of the pure joy of seeing him like that. You could see it so clearly on his face.

That unbelievable experience on the first day has been the same each and every session at CAN. For the past 9 years, Ayden has learned to swim, bike and play basketball.

CAN programs have opened up so many possibilities when so many others told us they didn’t have the resources or the time.

Learn more about CAN sports and rec programs.

Ayden goes beyond his boundaries and commits to the people who work there because he truly trusts them. The staff and volunteers at CAN have become real life superheroes in his eyes. They empower each child to accomplish so much more than anyone thinks they can. They have shown me what Ayden is capable of.

Because they taught him to swim, we can now go to the lake in the summer and we don’t have to be afraid that he will wander and drown.

Canucks Autism Network has become a pillar of strength, comfort and acceptance for us. Because of CAN, Ayden has made some of his best childhood memories with them. His bedroom is covered with photos of him at CAN summer camps. And all the medals that he’s received in their sports programs.

I don’t know where we would be without Canucks Autism Network. The variety of programs, the level of support and the consistency of quality – there are no other programs out there like CAN. Period. There just aren’t.

Now when I encounter new families who are also struggling with autism, I tell them just as passionately and urgently as our case worker did nine years ago. “You HAVE to register for CAN.”

I have personally paid for other families’ $25 memberships because I want them to experience what we had — and that we still have to this day.

Learn more about CAN membership,

Today, Ayden is more confident. On the verge of entering Grade 8, he is more social. He is happier. Ayden would not be the person he is today if not for Canucks Autism Network.

But there are still so many families like mine that need support. Approximately 1 in 46 children is diagnosed in BC. Ayden is one of over 16,000 children and youth with autism province-wide that need your support.

My most heartfelt thanks to all those who support Canucks Autism Network. Because of you, CAN will continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of families like ours.

On every level of my gratitude — thank you.

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Daniel Sedin & Kirk McLean with representatives from CAN & Modern Green Canada (Photo: Paul Yates)

Feb 8, 2019

“This was the best weekend of my life. And I got married on a weekend.”
– Jeff, CAN Pro-Am participant

After months of tireless fundraising for Canucks Autism Network (CAN), 16 rec and corporate teams laced up for the inaugural CAN Pro-Am Hockey Tournament, presented by Modern Green Canada. Featuring 19 NHL Alumni, including the surprise addition of Vancouver Canucks legend Daniel Sedin, it was truly a weekend to remember.

Each team’s journey began with a pledge to raise at least $20,000 for CAN. By the time the dressing rooms at Rogers Arena were cleared, the CAN Pro-Am had raised an incredible $575,000 to support programs for individuals and families living with autism across BC.

Pre-tournament festivities

The weekend festivities kicked off Friday afternoon in the Rogers Arena Captains Room with the Hotstove Luncheon, sponsored by Zerto. VIP guests were treated to decadent family-style fare while listening to unheard stories from Canucks Alumni spanning all three of the team’s Stanley Cup Final runs (1982, 1994, and 2011).

Brought in to moderate the panels was Sportsnet 650 personality Scott Rintoul. In addition to hosting the exclusive Q&A, Sportsnet 650 was live on location broadcasting for the duration of the weekend.

That evening, business attire was swapped for jeans and jerseys, as players and sponsors headed to the Imperial Vancouver for Draft Night, sponsored by Odlum Brown. Having raised a tournament-leading $75,667, the Odlum Brown Bulls lifted the inaugural “CANley Cup” and earned the right to select first overall. With the top pick, they selected former Canucks winger Raffi Torres.

The Odlum Brown Bulls lift the CANley Cup as the Top Fundraisers

In true NHL style, the showstopper on Draft Night was a surprise trade. Comprised of five CAN parents, the Healthy Scratches swapped their second overall pick to the tenth-ranked fundraising team in exchange for a $5,000 donation to CAN.

NHL Alumni hit the ice

With each team boasting a former NHL star on their roster, the stage was set to hit the ice on Saturday morning. Over the next two days, CAN Pro-Am players lived out their wildest hockey fantasies, competing alongside the likes of Daniel Sedin, Josh Gorges, Kirk McLean and more.

While there were many close games on Saturday, the action at Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre was highlighted by a thrilling shootout win from Dave Babych and the Healthy Scratches. Featuring a CAN parent in goal, Lee McCormick went head to head against former Canucks 30-goal scorer Mikael Samuelsson and came out on top.

Mikael Samulesson (left) during the CAN Pro-Am All-Star Game | Photo: Paul Yates

For CAN parents like Lee and John Carinha, the tournament experience was especially impactful. “The CAN Pro-Am has brought together a group of strangers with NHL greats for a common goal,” said John. “And it has nothing to do with the score of the game. We’re all here to highlight the opportunities that CAN offers the autism community. And most importantly, to fundraise for them to continue growing their reach.”

With games transitioning to Rogers Arena on Sunday, the tournament culminated in a highly-anticipated All-Star Game that showcased the top 22 individual fundraisers and eight NHL Alumni. Despite names like Daniel Sedin, Brendan Morrison, and Cliff Ronning on the ice, players and spectators were reminded of the real stars of the weekend during the pre-game ceremony.

Top fundraiser Bob Shanks was joined by 10-year-old CAN participant Noah Zanatta and Carleen Pauliuk from Presenting Sponsor Modern Green Canada to drop the ceremonial puck between Kirk McLean, and Daniel Sedin. Then, with a number of CAN hockey participants lined up at centre ice, Daniel shook the hand of each of the aspiring youth athletes.

Daniel Sedin greets members of the CAN hockey program. | Photo: Paul Yates

Like every pre-game ceremony at Rogers Arena, players were invited to remove their helmets for the singing of the national anthem. Taking the mic was 9-year-old Jayden Weiss, a member of the CAN/Sarah McLachlan School of Music program. Incredibly, Jayden sang ‘O Canada’ by heart, just four years after being unable to speak

Needless to say, the CAN Pro-Am was full of inspiring moments that are sure to bring rec and corporate teams back year after year. In an interview with Sportsnet 650 after the tournament, former Canucks star Brendan Morrison reflected on the impact that the CAN Pro-Am had on everyone involved.

“There was such positive energy all weekend,” Morrison shared. “Guys were talking about how they can’t wait until next year and how it’s going to grow and get bigger, which is huge for CAN.”
The collective fundraising effort of each team was bolstered by support from community sponsors, most notably the tournament’s presenting sponsor, Modern Green Canada.

Daniel Sedin returning to Rogers Arena for a cause! | Photo: Paul Yates

“This weekend was truly every hockey fan’s dream,” said Raymond K. Li, President of Modern Green Canada. “All the NHL Alumni were phenomenal and every player was smiling from ear to ear all weekend long. As a real estate developer and the Presenting Sponsor, we are honoured to partner with Canucks Autism Network to showcase our shared commitment to our community. Thank you to everyone involved for making this inaugural event such a success.”

With $575,000 raised, CAN Pro-Am players and supporters can take pride that their participation has helped ensure that individuals with autism will also have the opportunity to enjoy the thrill of sports province-wide.

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Dec 22, 2018

Jack, Trevor and Charmaine have been a proud Canucks Autism Network (CAN) family since 2013. At eight years old, Jack has benefited from a wide range of CAN programs — swim, soccer, gymnastics, summer camp, and of course, family events.

At CAN, we have always firmly believed that our programs benefit not only the individual participant, but the entire family. We pride ourselves in providing opportunities for families to spend valuable time together and connect with others who understand their challenges and triumphs.

That’s why it is so humbling and rewarding when we hear stories like this one.

While catching up with Jack’s family at the CAN Festival of Lights, powered by National Bank, they had two special gifts for us.

Charmaine shared with us how it was their family’s 6th time attending the annual holiday event at VanDusen Gardens. She presented us with a collage of family photos they had taken each year.

The second gift was directly from Jack. And it was something he had saved up for a year to give us.

“When Jack does chores at home, he gets $5 for every 20 tasks completed,” Charmaine explained. “10% goes to his savings and 10% goes to his charity of choice. And at his school’s entrepreneurial fair this year, he sold macaroons and shortbread that we baked together. On his sign, he wrote ‘10% goes to charity'”.

His charity of choice?

“Jack said he wanted to give it to CAN because he gets so much from you,” Charmaine told us.

We’re not crying. You are!

In addition to being longtime CAN parents, Trevor and Charmaine have both volunteered in our programs and our office for numerous years. It should come as no surprise that they have raised such an incredible young man who gives back with no hesitation.

During the holidays, our values of family and community become increasingly important. That’s why it is such a privilege to be welcomed into the lives of thousands of families like Jack’s across BC.

Happy holidays to all of our CAN families. From everyone at Canucks Autism Network.

UPDATE! This past February, Jack and his family were chosen for the Canucks’ Eagle’s Nest program. For their incredible contributions to CAN, they were treated to a Canucks game, an in-game message and an opportunity to meet defenceman Ben Hutton outside the team’s dressing room! See more photos on Facebook.

Jack's family with Vancouver Canucks defenceman Ben Hutton

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Oct 18, 2018

The inaugural Canucks Autism Network (CAN) Pro-Am Hockey Tournament, presented by Modern Green Canada, is set to take place from January 25 to January 27, 2019, at the UBC Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre and Rogers Arena, home of the Vancouver Canucks. In partnership with the NHL Alumni Association and Vancouver Canucks Alumni Association, the tournament will bring together former NHL greats with amateur players in support of CAN and families living with autism in British Columbia.

Themed as the “Best of BC”, the tournament will feature a uniquely local spin on the classic pro-am format, as each team will include a member of the NHL Alumni who was either born in BC or has competed for the Vancouver Canucks. As 2019 also celebrates the 100-year anniversary of hockey in BC, the CAN Pro-Am is of particular significance to the province’s historic hockey community.

To participate, players need to raise a minimum of $1,500 which will go towards the team’s fundraising total. CAN Pro-Am teams will have the opportunity to select NHL Alumni in the order of their fundraising ranking on Draft Night at The Imperial in Vancouver.

The following NHL Alumni will be draft-eligible, with additional NHL Alumni to be announced soon.

  • Dave Babych
  • Garth Butcher
  • Geoff Courtnall
  • Gerard Diduck
  • Thomas Gradin
  • Chris Higgins
  • David Jones
  • Jyrki Lumme
  • Kirk McLean
  • Dana Murzyn
  • Cliff Ronning
  • Raffi Torres
  • Kyle Wellwood

“We are very proud to announce the upcoming CAN Pro-Am,” said Glenn Healy, Executive Director of the NHL Alumni Association. “We know there is strong community support in Vancouver and we look forward to making this an annual success.”

The weekend will also feature a Hot Stove Lounge and Luncheon, where attendees will gain a unique insight about life in the NHL while enjoying a first-class lunch catered by Chef Robert Bartley in the Captain’s Room at Rogers Arena.

“The Vancouver Canucks Alumni Association is proud to be part of this wonderful fundraising initiative that supports one of our key beneficiaries,” said Bob Murray, President of the Vancouver Canucks Alumni Association. “Having a Pro-Am with NHL Alumni in Vancouver is a huge plus for the game of hockey and to the families who benefit from Canucks Autism Network programs throughout BC.”

Funds raised from the 2019 CAN Pro-Am Hockey Tournament will support the delivery of CAN’s sports and recreation programs for children, youth and young adults with autism. An estimated 1 in 66 Canadian children is diagnosed with autism and over 16,000 are impacted in BC alone.

“The CAN Pro-Am Hockey Tournament represents a unique and valuable opportunity,” said Paolo Aquilini, Vancouver Canucks Co-owner and Canucks Autism Network Co-founder. “While tournament participants spend the weekend making lifelong memories, funds raised will help ensure that individuals with autism province-wide will also have the opportunity to enjoy the thrill of sports.”

For more information, or to register your hockey team, please visit www.canproam.com.

Aug 31, 2018

On Saturday, September 15th, North Shore mountain bikers will unite on the trails of Mount Fromme for the first-ever TWENTY FIVER mountain bike race, presented by the North Shore Mountain Bike Association (NSMBA). The event is part of a series consisting of bi-weekly mountain bike races every second Thursday throughout the summer. Dubbed as “FIVER” races, the series invites NSMBA members to enjoy an evening of mountain biking followed by food and drinks for just $5.

2018 NSMBA TwentyFiver World ChampionshipsThe TWENTY FIVER will introduce a philanthropic twist to the final race of the series, as funds raised through the additional $20 registration fee will be shared by like-minded autism organizations, AutismBC and Canucks Autism Network (CAN).

While preparing for the first-time event, NSMBA’s Trail Programs and Sponsorship Manager, Cynthia Young, shared her excitement about the involvement of the two local charities.

“We are really excited to be partnering with two charities that support those in our community with autism. The correlation between being in the forest and improved mental health is substantial, and we have heard a lot about how cycling can really benefit some people with autism. Together with these charities, we are creating unique educational opportunities for the NSMBA Trail Builders, as well as volunteer opportunities for youth with autism.”

In addition to the TWENTY FIVER, NSMBA is taking active steps to create a more inclusive and welcoming trail environment for everyone. On Thursday, September 20th NSMBA staff and builders will receive autism training from CAN, and on Saturday, September 22nd CAN’s youth and young adult program participants will take part in a Trail Day led by NSMBA Builders.

A group photo of adults and kids with shovels on a mountain trail.
NSMBA takes diverse groups into the North Shore mountains to educate about trail building and outdoor stewardship.

The collaboration with NSMBA and AutismBC is a natural fit for CAN due to the groups’ mutual commitment to inclusion, strong partnerships and collective capacity.

Andrew Pinfold, Director of Operations at AutismBC, recently elaborated on the importance of our organizations working together towards a common goal.

“Partnering with other organizations that support our community is vital as we move forward to better the landscape for individuals and families living with autism. We are grateful to the North Shore Mountain Bike Association for hosting this event which will not only fund programs and support services that will enhance the lives of those impacted by autism in BC, but will also help identify ways to make NSMBA programs and trails accessible to the diverse needs of our community.”

Any mountain bikers interested in registering for the TWENTY FIVER can do so through North Shore Mountain Bike Association, as an NSMBA membership is required to participate. Following the race, all riders will be invited to celebrate a season of riding, racing, and trail building at the Lynn Valley Legion, including food, drinks, live music and prizing.

PLEASE NOTE: Although Canucks Autism Network is a proud beneficiary of the NSMBA TWENTY FIVER, this is not a CAN event. Therefore, CAN staff will not be on site providing behavioural support.

Not an avid mountain biker? You can show your support of CAN and AutismBC by purchasing a raffle ticket for a chance to win a three-day stay at Retallack – an exclusive backcountry destination located deep in the heart of the Selkirk Mountains in the West Kootenays.

Raffle tickets can be purchased online at 1 for $20 or 3 for $50. 

To learn more about the event, please visit North Shore Mountain Bike Association.

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Aug 17, 2018

Celebrating the spirit of inclusivity in sports and rec in Vancouver, we have been a proud charity partner of Our Cityride for the past two years. Set to be held this Saturday, August 18, the annual ride takes cyclists of all ages and abilities through a scenic route of Stanley Park and Downtown Vancouver.

In anticipation of the mass ride, 365 International Sport Foundation and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines generously donated a pair of Norco bicycles to be presented to two lucky Canucks Autism Network (CAN) participants.

In order to determine the recipients, we invited CAN families to share with us how our programs have helped their family become more active within their community.

The overwhelming response of inspiring testimonials made for a difficult selection. But after careful deliberation, we are extremely excited to be presenting bicycles to two very deserving families.

A mother of two sons with autism (aged 5 and 7), Susan Mackenzie has successfully used CAN programs to “build a bridge” for her family to enjoy more sports and rec opportunities in their community. Since 2015, her sons have participated in I CAN Be Active, Swim, Multisport and Gymnastics. Susan shared the following about her family’s experience with CAN:

“With the support of CAN’s knowledgeable staff, our sons can participate in sports like any other child, but in a truly supportive, inclusive and caring environment.

My oldest son has acquired so many skills through CAN swim that we were able to place him in regular public swim lessons for the first time this past spring! Now, we often go to our community pool and the beach to swim as a family!

Participation in community sports have not only helped our sons develop physically, but socially as well! Being active helps their body and mind. Needless to say, physical activity is paramount in our lives!”

Meanwhile, Robert Weishuhn and his family of five have been CAN members for four years now. Together, they have participated in countless Family Events, including our annual Sports Day, YVR Accessibility Tour, Movie Matinee, and Teahouse Breakfast. At 15 years old, his son Jamie has enjoyed CAN’s Monthly Youth Program and will be going to Overnight Camp for the first time this summer at Keats.

A father assists his son while playing ball hockey on a turf field.
Robert and Jamie at CAN Sports Day in 2016.

“CAN has provided us with opportunities to meet and make friends with so many other individuals and families living with autism. They have given us the chance to participate in activities that we would not normally be able to.

We are trying to get our son more active for his health. His little sister in very active and he tries to keep up, but he has difficulties with his balance. We purchased a 3-wheel bike a couple summers ago for him keep up and ride with her. We would like for him to eventually learn on a 2-wheel bike!”

*UPDATE! After two months with his new bike, Jamie is already riding in his neighbourhood! Watch here.

With huge thanks to 365 International Sport Foundation, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Our Cityride, we are overjoyed to give both Susan and Robert’s family the opportunity to stay active in their community with their brand new Norco bikes.

Both families will be on hand at Our Cityride this Saturday to receive their new rides. Join them at David Lam Park for a free family-friendly festival, featuring food, games and entertainment!

And if you’re interested in participating in the ride, it’s not too late to sign up! Children and youth under 18 ride free, while adults can register for a low cost of $20.

Learn more at ourcityride.com!

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