Category: Community

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CANUCKS AUTISM NETWORK CONNECTS NORTHERN BC WITH FREE IPAD LOAN PROGRAM
Device loan to provide access to online programming for kids, youth and adults on autism spectrum

Update: The iPad loan program was offered on a short-term basis for families as an introduction to CAN virtual programming. The iPads have since been donated to local autism and family service organizations within Prince George, Kitimat and Prince Rupert. However, CAN virtual programs can continue to be accessed by Northern BC families year-round. Email info@canucksautism.ca for more info!

January 28, 2021

Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is proud to announce a free iPad loan and monthly data program for children, youth and adults on the autism spectrum in Northern BC. With community partners in Prince George, Kitimat and Prince Rupert, the new initiative will provide families with the technology required to participate in CAN’s online social and recreation programs.

Since 2017, CAN has provided autism training and developed relationships across the Northern BC region. In response to COVID-19, CAN has successfully launched 16 weekly virtual programs, delivered in real-time over Zoom. Programs range from sports & rec, art, science and social opportunities for children, youth and adults on the autism spectrum.

These innovative online programs will allow families in Northern BC to directly experience CAN’s programs for the first time. The iPad loan program aims to expand that impact to even more families in the region.

“COVID-19 has been very difficult for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families,” said Canucks Autism Network VP Stephanie Jull, PhD, BCBA-D. “With the support of amazing local partners across Northern BC, we are excited to reach more children, youth and adults with autism in these communities than ever before.”

“Canucks Autism Network has been an invaluable resource for training and increasing autism acceptance in Northern BC for several years now,” said Christine Danroth, a Canucks Autism Network parent and community partner in Prince Rupert. “I am thrilled to support their efforts to make a positive impact in our community with these new opportunities for our local families to directly experience CAN programs.”

The iPad loan program provides families with use of an iPad Mini equipped with monthly data and registration in weekly virtual programs completely free of charge. Families who already have their own device and internet access are also welcome to sign up for CAN’s virtual programs.

Virtual programs are ongoing throughout winter, spring and summer 2021. iPad loans and virtual programs will continue year-round. Interested families can register now at canucksautism.ca/north.

The iPad loan program is supported by the Government of Canada’s Emergency Community Support Fund and Community Foundations of Canada. Helping CAN to deliver the program in Northern BC are Sources Community Resource Centres (SOURCES) in Prince George, Kitimat DisABILITY Resources and Christine Danroth in Prince Rupert.

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About Canucks Autism Network
Founded in 2008 by Vancouver Canucks Co-owners, Paolo and Clara Aquilini, Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is dedicated to providing 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.

Media Contact:
Harold Cecchetti
Communications Manager
harold.cecchetti@canucksautism.ca
778-886-7094

Have you ever stopped to count the number of breaths you take in a day? I don’t mean every breath, but the moments where you get to just stop and breathe? Like when you’re enjoying your morning coffee, or scrolling through your phone, or just relaxing with a book or TV show at the end of the day?

Not only do I not get these moments to breathe, most days I feel like I am completely out of air.

My name is Fee Johnson and I’m a mother of three autistic boys: River (7), Bodhi (9), and Indy (5).

If I could ask for one gift this holiday season, it would be to have a break.

While I know that COVID has been tough on everyone, it ’s really hit our family hard.

Usually, the boys are in school or in therapy. But now, we’re homeschooling and the therapists aren’t comfortable coming over. So I’m dealing with homeschooling and trying to get the boys to do their individual therapies and by the time they’re in bed, I’m only just starting to do all of the other things I didn’t get done during the day.

I try to be in bed by 1am and then four hours later, I’m up and starting the exhausting cycle again. Our middle son River gets up at 5am which is especially hard because he’s a flight risk. We have locks on all the doors and alarms in case he bolts. So the daily challenges really start the moment we get up. Then having the boys inside all day with nowhere to run just makes things harder. They have all this energy and no way to get it out.

Even at their ages, not all of our boys can get dressed on their own. They can’t all brush their teeth. Some are really picky eaters. So it’s hard. It’s hard with food. It’s hard with hygiene. It’s hard educating.

Every little bit is a struggle.  

Kids with autism don’t like transitions so trying to prepare all three for what’s to come at the same time is really hard. Autism is a spectrum so each one of our boys has their own challenges and quirks.

Before our family heard about Canucks Autism Network (CAN), the boys were never included in sports. We tried sports and even when other groups claimed to be inclusive, they weren’t. When we found CAN, the boys finally got to try sports without judgment. And we as parents finally had the confidence to step back and trust the CAN staff who just let our kids be kids. It was the first time we had a break.

River at CAN Active, 2018.

Before CAN’s Swim program, we couldn’t even wash River’s hair. He would scream to the point of building up a sweat or spiraling into a meltdown. After just two sessions at CAN Swim, he was willing to pour water over his head! Now he loves baths. I still can’t believe that we can scrub him head to toe.

It gives me great joy to see them interact with the other kids and the staff they’ve gotten to know and trust over the years.

And it gives me a break, which is awesome because I wouldn’t get one otherwise.  

While many of CAN’s usual programs aren’t running right now, they have really come through for us during COVID. We’ve enrolled the boys in all of these online programs that CAN introduced. I always know when it’s 1pm because the kids all run over to the laptop to get ready to do their CAN activities.

River and Bodhi at CAN Virtual Active, 2020.

Without these programs, the boys wouldn’t get the exercise or mental stimulation that they need. Before CAN, we felt so alone and frustrated. Now we get to finally feel like a normal family.

I didn’t think that was possible.

When COVID hit, I started to think about life without CAN. It made me really sad because there’s nobody else who does what they do. CAN is truly a miracle for families with autism.

So thanks to everyone who has supported CAN and helped them survive through this terrible time. Because we need CAN. We need them even more than we did before and I don’t know what we’d do without them.

Sincerely,

Fee Johnson, Proud CAN Mom

Since launching its new stream of virtual programming, CAN has filled 1,000 program spaces.

Would you consider making a gift to support kids like River, Bodhi and  Indy?

Donate today >>

November 20, 2020

Thank you to our entire Canucks Autism Network (CAN) community for your ongoing patience during this time. Our team continues working hard to ensure that our members are able to access in-person programming safely.

In response to yesterday’s new provincial health announcement, we will be resuming all indoor programs across the Lower Mainland beginning Thursday, November 26.

This decision is in alignment with Dr. Bonnie Henry’s recommendations to allow indoor group physical activities, as long as proper health and safety protocols are in place.

That said, our team has developed updated Safety Plans for both in-person programs and family experiences. These new protocols ensure that our programs are either in line with, or exceed, provincial health recommendations.

Please note that while the suspension of indoor programs affected only the Lower Mainland, our new Safety Plan applies to ALL in-person programs across BC.

This includes all outdoor programs in the Lower Mainland and all programs in our Vancouver Island and Interior regions.

Updated Safety Plan: In-Person Programs

The following changes ensure that we can further support physical distancing and safety, while maintaining fun, active and individualized experiences for all participants.

Curriculum Updates

  • All children’s sports & rec programs will feature a station-based format in which participants are even further distanced within the program area.
  • All children’s sports & rec programs are now designed to be hands-free. Participants will focus on skills such as running, jumping, hopping and kicking. Activities that require touching equipment will be eliminated for this season.
  • Youth and adult programs will feature increased outdoor activities where physical distancing can be maintained.

Mandatory Masks

  • New health orders require mask use in all indoor public spaces – if you are able.
  • This includes facility lobbies, hallways, washrooms, etc.
  • We recognize that not all participants are able to wear a mask, but those who can are strongly encouraged to do so.
  • In alignment with other community sport programs and public health orders, masks will NOT be required on the ‘field of play’ (ie. on the ice, field or gym court).

No Spectators:

  • New health orders prohibit programs spectators of any kind. Parents/caregivers are no longer able to enter the facility and observe programs.
  • Participants will be dropped off at the facility entrance and CAN staff will escort them into the space.

Reduced Participants

  • In order to further support physical distancing, we will be decreasing the number of participants enrolled in each session beginning Winter 2021.

Physically Distanced Support

  • Provincial health guidelines require that CAN staff and volunteers maintain physical distance from participants.
  • For participants who have difficulty maintaining physical distance, a parent/caregiver may be asked to join the program to provide one-on-one physical support. If this is the case for your child, CAN staff will contact you directly to create an individualized approach.

Read the full Safety Plan for In-Person Programs. >>

Browse the Winter 2021 Program Guide. >>

Safety Plan Updates: Family Experiences

CAN Family Experiences will continue as scheduled. This decision remains in alignment with provincial health recommendations as long as families remain within their household bubbles.

In the past, the goal of our Family Experiences has been to provide opportunities for our members to enjoy local attractions together as a family, while also meeting other families in their community.

During this time of physical distancing, we must reiterate the need to eliminate interactions with other households at CAN Family Experiences.

We remain committed to providing opportunities for CAN families to enjoy attractions within their immediate household bubble and in their local community.

We will continue to work with venues and attractions to create opportunities for our members by covering the cost of entry fees and/or prioritizing venue access for CAN families.

  • Physical distancing must be maintained at all times and families must stay with their immediate household bubble.
  • CAN will ensure that all host venues/attractions have comprehensive COVID-19 safety plans and will work to secure more experiences for families in outdoor venues
  • In accordance with provincial health mandates, families are encouraged to limit travel across communities to access CAN Family Experiences

Read the full Safety Plan for Family Experiences. >>

During this time of uncertainty, we want to reiterate to our members that we are here for you.

We remain committed to providing CAN members with safe and physically-distanced opportunities to be active and engaged with their community.

And in recognition of the increasing need to provide programming accessible from home, we are also committed to expanding our virtual offerings into the Winter 2021 season and beyond.

View the Winter 2021 Program Guide.

Our team is keeping a watchful eye on any further provincial health recommendations and orders. Please note that at any point in time, additional temporary program suspensions may occur in accordance with new mandates.

Members will receive notifications of any program suspensions in a timely manner. We appreciate your flexibility and understanding during this time.

As the health situation in BC continues to rapidly evolve, we encourage members to be especially mindful during this time and to use sound judgement to ensure the safety of the CAN community – and the larger community we are a part of.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to email info@canucksautism.ca.

Additional resources

November 3, 2020

Uno Gelato and the Canucks Autism Network are delighted to announce a partnership to help raise funds for new programs to assist families and individuals with autism. For the month of November, Uno Gelato will donate 10% from every online delivery & in-store purchase of a pint.

Founded in Vancouver, the gelateria embraces a farm-to-cone philosophy, working with local farmers for the best natural ingredients.

  • FREE deliveries available across Metro Vancouver!
    Minimum order $50. Visit unogelato.com/shop and use code CAN2020 at checkout.
  • Or purchase a pint in-store!
    Locations at Kitsilano and Canada Place. Hours & location details >>

“We’re very excited for CAN month at Uno Gelato. I first got involved with CAN through my best friend Bob Shanks who has since become the leading individual fundraiser for the Canucks Autism Network and an inspiration in the community. Like many organizations, CAN has faced a multitude of challenges during the pandemic with the cancellation of fundraising events and in-person programs affecting many B.C. families,” said Paddy Mahony, Uno Gelato co-founder. “At Uno Gelato we’re thrilled to give back to the community and support CAN as they safely launch their new programs. A huge thank you to the CAN team who make such a positive impact locally. We’re proud to partner with you!”

“We are so grateful for Uno Gelato’s support during this difficult time,” said Britt Andersen, Canucks Autism Network CEO. “As a non-profit, we truly rely on the generosity of local businesses to help us make a lasting impact on our members. It is only through a community of support that we can ensure every individual with autism is understood, accepted and supported.”

Uno Gelato currently has up to 2 dozen different flavours, with seasonal selections available as different fruits and nuts ripen locally. Uno Gelato sources from local farmers such as Emma Lea Farms in Ladner for blueberries, Tesfa Farms in Langley for water buffalo milk, Avalon Dairy in the Fraser Valley for organic milk and cream, and Vancouver Island Sea Salt in Black Creek, to name a few of their regional producers.

Uno Gelato Maestro, Andrés Bermudez is formally trained in classic gelato and sorbetto making by the renowned Carpigiani Gelato University in Bologna. The gelateria is presently offering pints (500ml) for a special price of $12.50 plus GST with a minimum 4 pint order — mix or match any flavour — with 10% of pint sales to be donated to the Canucks Autism Network the month of November. Purchase online at unogelato.com/shop for complimentary delivery in most of the GVRD. (Use the code CAN2020 when checking out.)

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About Uno Gelato
B.C. owned and operated, Uno Gelato handcrafts Italian style gelato and sorbetto from scratch, made fresh daily. The gelateria’s artisan gelato and sorbetto is produced by an amazingly talented team of local craftsmen and women. They make seasonal, farm-to-cone creations using the very best natural ingredients available and partner with local farmers and suppliers. From Vancouver Island Sea Salt to Avalon Dairy organic milk and the freshest local fruits and herbs, Uno Gelato is an unforgettable sensory experience. Uno Gelato…Simply Divine. www.unogelato.com

About Canucks Autism Network
Canucks Autism Network (CAN) provides programs for individuals with autism and their families, while promoting acceptance and inclusion through community engagement and training initiatives across BC and beyond. Founded in 2008 by Vancouver Canucks Co-owners Paolo and Clara Aquilini, CAN has directly impacted over 5,000 individuals with autism. During this time of physical distancing, CAN continues to reach more families across the province with their new virtual programs while taking steps to gradually and safely reintroduce in-person programs.

Media Contacts:
Lori Pike-Raffan, Uno Gelato
lpike@unogelato.com / 604-808-6655 c.

Harold Cecchetti, Communications Manager, Canucks Autism Network
harold.cecchetti@canucksautism.ca / 778-886-7094 c.

Zoë – Magee Secondary

CAN member since 2011

Zoë has been extremely fortunate to be involved with CAN. She has participated in wonderful programs we may never have been able to access otherwise.

Over the years, she has enjoyed swimming, skating, skiing, volunteering, weekly youth meetups, Netflix watch parties, Chilliwack Corn Maze, VanDusen Festival of Lights, Overnight Camp and Sarah McLachlan School of Music, among others!

Zoë graduated with community and citizenship awards, work experience that included working for the VSB, and many new friends. She will be returning for grade 13, and she hopes to see you at future CAN events!

–Angela, Zoe’s mom

Jamie – Tamanawis Secondary

CAN member since 2014

Being part of CAN for many years helped me learn to deal with social situations, getting out and enjoying activities with others like me. I was given opportunities and resources that I never knew that were available.

–Jamie

Nicholas – Langley Fundamental Elementary

CAN member since 2016

CAN helped Nicholas gain the confidence he needed to make it through his final elementary school year. He now has the “I CAN” attitude.

-Nicole, Nicholas’ mom

Kush – Windsor Secondary

CAN member since 2010

I’ve loved CAN programs since I was 9 years old and today I am 19.

-Kush

 

Brayden – UFV Dogwood Diploma

CAN member since 2014

CAN was instrumental in not only Brayden’s accomplishment; they were instrumental in his decision to return to school and turn his life around. We will be forever grateful.

-Lori, Brayden’s grandma

Watch Brayden and his grandma speak about his experience with CAN at the Canucks For Kids Fund Dice & Ice Gala in February 2020!

Jojo
Eric Hamber Secondary

CAN member since 2012

 

 

Connor
Riverside Secondary

CAN member since 2014

 

 

Ges
West Vancouver Secondary

CAN member since 2017

 

 

Kieran
Secondary School Certificate

CAN member since 2010

CAN helped Kieran make friends and connect to opportunities in the community. We are so grateful!

Kieran is working hard toward his goal of becoming an animator. He has enjoyed summer courses at VanArts and is looking forward to fulfilling his dreams.

He has had so much fun meeting people and learning sports and more with CAN, Sirota’s, VASS, SOBC, and Challenger Baseball. We are thankful to all who have helped him grow and flourish along the way and also to those who will continue to help teach and coach him in the future!

Congratulations Kieran, and on to an exciting future! Oh, the places you’ll go!

-Cynthia, Kieran’s mom

 

Davin, Johnston Heights Secondary

CAN member since 2012

Your guy just graduated! Thank you for believing in kids like Davin during their formative years! That is all they needed — for people to believe that they CAN do it! -Josie, CAN mom

In addition to receiving his high school diploma, Davin received the District Award for Fine Arts and two School Awards for Resiliency.

Congratulations to ALL of our CAN participants who graduated from schools across BC!

Whether you submitted a photo or not, we are SO proud of your commitment to your studies and your “I CAN” attitude.

From everyone at Canucks Autism Network, best of luck in all your future endeavours!

June 4, 2020

Keara Farnan is a CAN participant, volunteer and regular guest writer, who shared with us her experience accessing CAN virtual programs during COVID-19.

Over the past couple of months, I have taken part in Canucks Autism Network (CAN)’s virtual programs for youth and adults. These have included Netflix Parties, Zoom meet ups and live fitness classes. It has been a great way to interact with others and feel part of the CAN community during this difficult time.

Continuing to participate with CAN has helped me feel a sense of belonging and decreased my feelings of social isolation, anxiety and depression.

I’ve discovered common interests among other participants and connected with a few individuals outside of virtual programs as well.

Netflix Watch Parties

One of the movies we’ve watched is Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle. The chatroom function allowed us to talk about the movie while it was playing. It was a great way to feel more included.

Discussing the movie allowed us to share our perspectives, answer trivia questions, and even play a game of movie bingo.

Even though we weren’t watching together in-person, it still felt as though we were connected. I like being able to discuss the movie with others as opposed to just watching by myself at home.

Adults with autism can be particularly vulnerable to social isolation and mental health issues, like depression & anxiety.

The suspension of services can be disproportionately challenging for them. The situation only gets harder when they live alone.

Zoom Meet Ups

The first Zoom Meet Up I took part in consisted of myself and about 15 other people, a mix of both staff and participants. I noticed some familiar faces and it was great to meet new participants and staff who I have never met before as well.

We started with introductions, followed by a picture guessing game, and a scavenger hunt. CAN participants were able to share whether or not they enjoyed the Zoom Meet Up and what changes they would like to see in the future.

I really enjoyed meeting new participants and staff, as well as trying out new activities. It’s a great way to get together as a group all in one place at the same time while maintaining social distancing.

Our online programs for youth and adults with autism are designed to build social connection, routine, and physical and mental health.

Trying out new apps like Zoom has definitely helped me become more familiar with online platforms. I feel more confident participating in more virtual meetups and connecting with others online now.

Zoom Fitness

Last month, I had the chance to participate in CAN’s first online fitness class. As someone who actively exercises and likes to stay in shape, it was a great way to bond with my peers, while maintaining my fitness.

The instructor showed us how to do squats, jumping jacks, and “mountain climbers”, followed by stretches, which are important to do after any physical activity.

The exercise class has been my favourite out of all three CAN virtual programs so far. I find that working out helps me stay calm if I’m stressed out or feeling anxious.

***

Participating in CAN’s online programs has allowed me to practice my social skills while doing fun activities, rather than sitting at home alone and further isolating myself.

Help us continue to deliver our vital online programs. They’re needed now more than ever.


My wish is that eventually things will soon go back to normal, and that we all will be reunited in person. I cannot wait to participate and volunteer in CAN programs in person once this virus is gone.

In the meantime, CAN’s online programs have given me something to look forward to every day while COVID-19 continues.

-Keara Farnan, CAN participant & volunteer

CAN online programs are needed now more than ever. With help from generous contributors like you, we can continue to support our community virtually during this difficult time.

May 29, 2020

I quit homeschooling Kaya this morning and left with our autism service dog Dianne for a three hour walk, leaving my husband to take over.

When you’re a parent of a child with autism, you have to be on 24 hours a day. There’s no such thing as a break.

My name is Iveta Nelson and I’m the mother of two beautiful girls. My youngest, Kaya, has autism.

Mothers of children with autism have stress levels comparable to combat veterans.

Ever since we had to start homeschooling, Kaya has struggled with most of the activities that have been assigned to her. With so many kids in her virtual classroom, the instruction isn’t adapted to Kaya’s needs.

She doesn’t get the support she usually does in person. It has been very stressful and exhausting.

It wasn’t until CAN started putting their videos out that Kaya finally started to pay attention.

I could tell by her wide eyes that Kaya felt like the CAN coaches were talking to her. Watching another person doing the activity alongside her made a world of difference.

For Kaya, she feels safe and at home with CAN, so she sees the videos as being for her. So she pays attention. At school, she never feels like that.

The need for our online programs has never been greater. Give now to support CAN in helping others like Kaya.

This time has been really hard for us all. We’re just so thankful to CAN that we have activities to do at home that are short and simple enough for our amazing kids but challenging enough that they can work on their skills and still have fun!

And when they do them, they feel so proud of themselves. I know because I’ve seen the pride on my own daughter’s face.

Make a contribution to give families like the Nelsons access to vital online programs that can support them right now.

So thank you CAN and thank you to all of the people who make CAN possible.

Because of you, I have hope that our family will get through this.

Sincerely,
Iveta Nelson
CAN Parent

Give hope to families like the Nelsons. 

The need for CAN programs is greater than ever. With help from contributors like you, we can continue to support our community during and after this very difficult time.

May 15, 2020

Ryan Wu has been an enthusiastic part of Canucks Autism Network (CAN) for years! He has participated in virtually all our programs — from swim and multisport to family events and overnight camp.

In our many years of spending time with Ryan, we’ve come to know three things about him. He always has a positive attitude. He loves helping others. And he is GREAT on camera!

See Ryan’s recap of the Adults vs Kids Soccer Game at Multisport Camp four years ago!

So this past month, Ryan sent us a message that he wanted to share with the CAN community.

“I’m reaching out to YOU to see how you’re doing and how you’re managing through this COVID-19 thing.”

Ryan is obviously a creative young man. So he shared 10 things that he’s doing at home to stay busy!

1. Read a book
“If you don’t have a book, you can always use an app on your phone!”

2. Play a board game
“You can play Jenga or Uno — or my favourite game Taco vs Burrito! Or you could go old school and play hangman.”

3. Look at old photo albums
“Remember the good old days when you used to go outside. But don’t worry, this thing will be over soon! Just wait.”

4. Help out around the house
“An example of this is folding towels, which I do a lot of, since we wash our hands a lot!”

5. Go on a scavenger hunt
“But remember, only your family!”

6. Bake some cookies

7. Dress up as your favourite character
“Luke, I am your father!”

8. Build lego
“With your toys, you can act out a story!”

9. Take a nap
All these activities are sure to tire you out!

10. Throw a ball
Coach Robbie has a great lesson for throwing a basketball on his #MultisportMonday series!

11. Play hide and seek

12. Do multiplication tables
“But seriously. It’s important to stay at home at a time like this. It can sometimes be extremely boring — I get it.”

“This will be over soon. I promise. In the meantime, stay strong Canada. You can do this!”

Thanks for all these great ideas, Ryan. Such positive messages to share with the CAN community!

And remember, CAN has a full catalogue of #TeamMeeting videos and worksheets to do at home too! Visit canucksautism.ca/home.

Read more

Sebastian: “Living a life I like”
Sebastian has been a CAN participant since our inaugural year. Now, he is one of our most dedicated volunteers!

Keara: My experience coping during COVID-19
“I’m stuck between wanting to be social and wanting to remain in self isolation.”

Keeping it fresh and healthy with Keara
Keara shares a recipe she has perfected while staying home during COVID-19.

BLOG HOME

April 29, 2020

In 2015, Alejandro Diaz opened El Santo, a contemporary Mexican restaurant in New Westminster.

In the five years since, El Santo has quickly gained critical acclaim – both regionally and nationally. They have been featured in publications such as The Globe and Mail and Vancouver Sun, and have been listed in OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants in Canada for a Big Night Out and Vancouver Magazine’s Best Latin Restaurant.

As a business owner, Alejandro firmly believes in using his success to positively impact the community around him. For his family, this means supporting Canucks Autism Network (CAN).

Around the same time his restaurant opened, Alejandro’s son Parker was diagnosed with autism.

“As a father, I understand both the challenges and joys of raising a child with autism,” Alejandro shared with us.

“We have experienced first-hand the need for inclusion and acceptance in the community.”

While searching for organizations that could support Parker, Alejandro’s family found CAN in 2016.

As members of the CAN community, they have participated in Family Events like our annual Festival of Lights, Rogers Arena Skate and Sports Day. Meanwhile, Parker has benefited from CAN’s weekly swimming lessons and overnight camp in the summer.

Alejandro’s three children at the CAN Festival of Lights

“We have participated in many CAN programs,” Alejandro said.

“But what we appreciate most is how they train other businesses and groups to take action and join them in supporting individuals with autism. That’s why I believe so strongly in giving back to CAN.”

Learn more about CAN Training & Community Engagement.

Since joining CAN, Alejandro has used his restaurant as a platform to raise incredible financial support for our programs, training and community engagement initiatives.

For every kids meal purchased at the restaurant, $1 is donated to CAN.

Additionally, his fundraising dinners have brought in upwards of $11,000 on an annual basis. Featuring multiple courses paired with carefully-curated drink pairings, they are highly-anticipated events that quickly sell out.

At our own fundraisers, El Santo’s exclusive dining experiences are consistently among the most coveted auction items. At our recent CAN Reveal Gala, El Santo donated a private dinner for 24 that raised an incredible $20,000!

After just four years, Alejandro and El Santo have raised over $88,800 for CAN – an astounding contribution from a pillar of the CAN community.

But like many small businesses and restaurants, El Santo has had to temporarily close their doors due to the current COVID-19 crisis.

It should come as no surprise that despite having to shut down, Alejandro was still finding ways to give back. Rather than letting fresh perishables go to waste, the chefs at El Santo whipped up hundreds of meals for those in their community to pick up free of charge.

And this past month, they have begun taking fresh meals over to healthcare workers at Royal Columbian Hospital. Despite their own hardships, it is inspiring to see El Santos’ efforts to continue lifting up their community.

If you or someone you know lives in the New Westminster area, please consider purchasing a gift card to El Santo. And if you aren’t connected to the New West community directly, trust us – it’s worth the trip when they re-open their doors.

Gift cards can be purchased by calling Alejandro Diaz directly at 604-727-8176 or emailing alejandro@elsanto.ca.

Better yet, El Santo is currently accepting pre-orders for Mother’s Day takeout!

$110 for a three-course meal for four — visit their Facebook page or email alejandro@elsanto.ca directly to order.

Read more

Learn how you can help CAN

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Cooking with Keara: Keeping it fresh and healthy

Pokerrito to donate 100% of sales to CAN

Return to CAN Blog

 

April 24, 2020

#WeBelieve that every individual with autism should be supported during important transitions into adulthood.

Sebastian Ralphs is not only one of our longest tenured participants – he is one of our most active volunteers! He has used a lifetime of experiences to build confidence, gain life skills and secure meaningful employment. This is his story.

“Living a life I like”

Hi, I’m Sebastian Ralphs. I‘ve been a Canucks Autism Network (CAN) member since it was founded in 2008. First, I was a participant. Then in 2014, I became a volunteer to help other kids with autism. I’ve done so many fun things and learned so much at CAN. Let me tell you about it!

My family and I first heard about CAN from our neighbours, whose daughter worked there. My first activities with CAN were horseback riding at a stable in Southlands and golfing at the driving range with a golf pro.

These experiences were programs that were piloted in CAN’s early years before we shifted our focus on our current sports & rec offerings. Sebastian has been with us for a long time!

I did a lot of summer camps with CAN which helped me be more confident with things like high ropes and rock climbing. I was a little scared with those at the beginning, but the staff and volunteers helped me. I did many years of soccer and swimming until I moved on to CAN’s youth and adult programs.

Sebastian at 14 years old with his friend Tilman. CAN Overnight Camp in 2011.

One of my favourite programs was the CAN music program with the Sarah McLachlan School of Music. I was in the first-ever class that was offered. And that made me happy because I love music. I met new friends and also my first girlfriend in the music classes.

We learned to sing as a choir and also play percussion. Our choir sang at the first CAN Reveal Gala, and we sang “Ice Cream”.

I even shared a microphone with Sarah McLachlan herself!

I was able to do the music program for two years as a participant – and then two more as a volunteer.

My mom first told me about the opportunity to volunteer with CAN back in 2014. I really wanted to do it so I could help other kids with autism. My first volunteer position was at the soccer program. I only expected to do things like set up and take down equipment.

So I was happy that I got to lead warm-ups and stretching and demonstrate skills that I had first learned as a participant.

I have been a volunteer in the Explore Volunteering program, where I helped other youth and adults with autism with various tasks, like making a forest trail and stocking clothing at the Union Gospel Mission Thrift Store.

This program is for youth and adults with autism to sample volunteer opportunities in the community. As an experienced volunteer already, Sebastian helped out in a ‘peer support’ capacity, providing a positive role model for our participants!

Sebastian has additionally participated in one of our first two Translink Accessibility Tours for youth and adults with autism. View video of the first CAN x Translink Accessibility Tour.

I’ve also really enjoyed volunteering at many community events, like CAN’s info booth at Canucks games, family events like Sports Day and fundraisers like the Reveal Gala. I see so many friends and people I know from so many years at CAN.

I’ve been able to do so many fun things, like being a people greeter, assisting at information booths, giving kids stickers and demonstrating games to kids.

CAN has helped me be more social and confident in connecting with other people.

Volunteering with CAN even helped me get another volunteer job as a Sun Run clinic leader at Dunbar Community Centre for the last 4 years. My volunteer experience also helped me get a paid job at Vancity Credit Union.  I’m not doing any of my jobs now because of the pandemic, but hopefully it will end soon.

I am proud that I have these jobs. CAN is helping me have a life I like!

Read more

Volunteer Spotlight: “Be friendly to one another”

Behind the scenes with the Reveal Gala choir

Sylvain Formo: Changing my thoughts about autism

Former hockey player gives back at CAN skate

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