Shawn & Leslie are members of The Village, our monthly donor community.
Together, they shared with us why they give. Watch them share their story. Or read their interview transcribed below.
We’re parents to two girls, Siana and Selita. And our youngest Selita also happens to be on the autism spectrum.
When Selita was about eight months, she stopped making eye contact. And that was when we had our worries. Shortly after, she was diagnosed with autism.
I remember feeling very, very limited in what we could support her with. But when we learned about CAN and started using the programs, it was a completely different environment for her.
She flourished. She thrived in that environment.
She seems to know the days of the week based on her schedule with CAN. She’ll say, “This is the day that I have sports. This is the day I have gymnastics. This is the day I have swimming.”
Around the time that it’s time to go to class, she’ll say “Gymnastics?”
It’s in her body language and her level of excitement. And the staff at CAN have gotten to know her over the years.
They’ll immediately recognize her and say, “Oh okay, we know Selita likes splashing in the pool.” And they just meet her where she’s at.
Selita has gained so many skills over the years like from riding a bike to just swimming quite independently.
CAN has given her the ability to learn how to swim. And that’s something that maybe other people could take for granted. She’ll tread water for such a long time now, and it’s just amazing. We owe so much of that to CAN.
As parents, when we first heard of CAN, and we started using their resources, one of the biggest things I felt was relief.
Relief knowing that there’s support here that is appropriate for her. Relief knowing that we’ve found a community here.
The programs offer so much. And they they’re not run for free. There’s a lot of infrastructure, technology, and trade professionals that are going into the program design, organization, and scheduling.
There are so many things that we don’t think of that make these programs sustainable.
And you want to see where your donation goes, right? It’s very, very evident in the programs that are that are offered.
And whether it’s a few dollars or a few hundred dollars, it all adds up and goes to the right place.
We’ve been donating monthly for such a long time that we don’t think about it anymore. It just becomes part of our monthly budget.
I think having something that CAN can rely on in a sustained and continuous basis really makes a real impact.
And I really encourage other donors who are considering a monthly donation to think of it that way — donating allows you to be a part of the continued delivery of these programs.
Christina Boram is a member of The Village, our monthly donor club.
This past spring, she shared her story. And what motivates her to give. Watch her share her story. Or read the transcribed interview below.
My brother was born 18 years ago. And back then it was really hard for us to understand his needs.
I distinctly remember our family thinking, “Okay, our brother is going to need 100% of my mom’s time.”
But we didn’t really understand how to properly support her. It took us years for us to be able to go out as a family to do things. We would always say, “Somebody needs to stay at home with Justin.”
So a lot of times, for things like my high school or university graduation — all of these really key events — we weren’t necessarily able to have him there. We just didn’t know how to support him.
He may not be comfortable. He might get too stimulated. Or it may be just too difficult for him.
But I remember the first time I went and witnessed a CAN family experience. The first one was the Chilliwack Corn Maze a few years back.
So many families were talking about how important it was that these services existed for them. And it was from that moment that I really wanted to get involved with CAN.
As a donor, being able to give back and share the impact that CAN has — that’s going to increase inclusivity.
Thinking about my brother, I was always in fear that he wouldn’t be accepted. I want the families coming to CAN to know there is a place for you here.
I would say if someone isn’t giving already, start small. Don’t feel like you need to make ripples right away.
Whether that be $10 or $20, just start off with something that’ll help you get into the routine of giving.
And being able to see the impact, I think it’ll compel a lot of people to continue to give more. When I first started to give, I was able to see it right away, which compelled me to continue to donate.
And for a fifth straight year, we have set a new event record!
Tournament participants spent months fundraising for the right to play alongside former fan favourites like Michael Del Zotto, Matthew Barnaby, Kirk McLean and Frank Corrado.
Efforts ranged from grassroots initiatives, like hosting pub nights, donating auction items and collecting pledges from friends — to corporate-level contributions, like securing sponsorships and selling Luncheon tables.
The end result? Over $1.07 million raised for the cause!
Leading the way for the third straight year were The Constructors. Led by Cam McClelland, this team full of dedicated CAN supporters raised a remarkable $172,000+. In the individual standings, longtime supporter Rob Anselmo earned the Golden Helmet, having raised an astonishing $42,000+.
But you can’t say “CAN Pro-Am” without saying “Bob Shanks“. The legendary fundraiser was edged out by the thinnest of margins in the standings. With his total of $37,000+, Bob brought his all-time total to over $350,000 raised for CAN since 2012!
The Constructors: Top Fundraising Team in 2021, 2022 and 2023Rob Anselmo (right) with NHL Alumni Kyle Turris. Player jerseys sponsored by OPA! of Greece.Bob Shanks with 3-time Olympic gold medalist Meghan Agosta
And why do fundraisers like Cam, Rob and Bob put in months of hard work? As Bob would say, “It’s all for the kids.”
Thanks to events like the CAN Pro-Am, our impact now extends far beyond our traditionalchildren’s sports programs.
The weekend kicked off with the Luncheon, sponsored by TD Bank Group, where supporters heard first-hand about CAN’s impact on Autistic youth and adults in our community.
Held at the Parq Vancouver on Friday, November 3, guests came for a raucous Q&A with Brad May, Darcy Hordichuk and Barnaby. But it was a CAN participant and staff member who stole the show.
Joey Kenward (Sportsnet 650) moderated our “Gloves Off” panel, featuring a trio of former NHL enforcers.Not only did Brayden and his grandma, Lori, speak at the Luncheon, they raised over $2,400 to participate in the tournament that weekend!
“I thought I was bound to be nothing.” Brayden shared. “But I’ve gone from being a high school dropout who never left his room to someone whose schedule is packed with shifts at multiple jobs, including working at CAN!”
Brayden and Lori received not one, but two standing ovations.
Later that night, our 18 fundraising teams gathered at Good Co. Granville for their long-awaited Draft Night. Sponsored by Sportsnet 650, the evening was hosted by Satiar Shah and Dan Riccio.
Teams selected NHL Alumni onto their rosters in the order that they finished in the fundraising. It was a trio of CAN Pro-Am rookies that were taken off the board first. Del Zotto, Barnaby and Hordichuk were drafted first, second and third overall.
Milan Mann, President of BM Group of Companies, presented the CAN Pro-Am Cup to Cam McClelland, captain of The ConstructorsAfter announcing his retirement just two months ago, former Canucks defenceman Michael Del Zotto joined us in support of the cause!
“To be in a room full of selfless people who donate and give back is refreshing,” said Del Zotto. “Everybody is here for the same cause. I get goosebumps just thinking about it. I’ve done a lot of charity events, but this one is probably the most special.”
NHL Alumni Kyle Turris, David Jones, Martin Gelinas and Matthew BarnabyKirk McLean has been a passionate supporter of the cause — even before our inaugural CAN Pro-Am five years ago!This year, we welcomed former Canucks fan fave Frankie Corrado for the first time! Former Flames captain Todd Simpson is always a tournament favourite!Lexi and her proud dad after singing ‘O Canada’
Our immense thanks to all the players, coaches, donors, sponsors and supporters who make this tournament possible each and every year. Your efforts will make a lasting impact on the lives of so many children, youth and adults on the autism spectrum.
VANCOUVER, B.C. – Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is thrilled to announce a total of $50,000 in sponsorship funding from TD Bank Group (TD) to support the delivery of five CAN Family Experiences. The designated Family Experiences will be offered across the Lower Mainland, in the Interior, and in the Fraser Valley, and expect to welcome a cumulative 4,200 CAN members.
CAN Family Experiences aim to bring families with children on the autism spectrum together to connect over shared experiences, while enjoying an accessible community activity in a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive environment. In addition to the financial support, TD has committed upwards of 20 staff volunteers who will welcome, support, and engage with CAN families at each Family Experience.
TD District Vice Presidents, Steven Tsangaris (Burnaby Tri-Cities) and Tony Mauro (Richmond, South Vancouver, South Delta), presented the $50,000 cheque to CAN CEO, Britt Andersen, during the Eagle Quest Mini Golf Family Experience on Saturday, May 6th in Coquitlam.
“At Canucks Autism Network, we believe that every individual on the spectrum and their family has the right to meaningful social connections,” said Britt Andersen, CAN CEO.“Building more inclusive, accepting, and supportive communities is at the core of what we do, which is why we are grateful to TD Bank Group for their commitment to community inclusion. TD’s generous funding will help us build a community of support where families with children on the spectrum can connect and feel a sense of belonging.”
“We’re so proud to present this donation to the Canucks Autism Network to help expand the incredible Family Experiences program,” said Tony Mauro, District Vice President, TD Bank Group. “At TD, we believe in supporting programs and initiatives focused on increasing access for people to take part and feel a sense of belonging in their community.”
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About Canucks Autism Network Canucks Autism Network (CAN) was founded in 2008 by Vancouver Canucks Co-owners, Paolo and Clara Aquilini, whose son has autism. 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.
For more information:
Lindsay Petrie, Director of Marketing & Communications, Canucks Autism Network lindsay.petrie@canucksautism.ca
by Sarah Russell, CAN participant & staff
I think I always knew that I was different.
For so many years, I carried around this feeling of inadequacy without really knowing why.
When I found out about my autism diagnosis as an adult, it was the most validating information that I could have ever heard.
I was finally able to let go of the weight I’d been carrying and the pressure I’d been putting on myself my whole life. What I used to think of as inadequacies were actually just different ways of experiencing the world.
My name is Sarah Russell. Since 2015, I’ve been working with Canucks Autism Network (CAN) as a Support Worker, Coach, Onsite Supervisor, and Learning Facilitator. And in 2021, I learned of my diagnosis and joined as a Participant.
I began supporting CAN participants before knowing I was on the spectrum. Even then, I always knew that I could be myself at CAN programs.
My involvement with CAN first started when I was working through a partnered program in Victoria called PISE. PISE was looking to accommodate beyond physical disabilities and CAN was looking to expand on the Island.
I kind of fell into the role of CAN Coach, and once I started, I was hooked. I just loved helping participants develop their sports skills so they could ultimately access community programs or school programs or just keep up with their neurotypical peers on the playground.
Since starting at CAN, I’ve held various roles and find them all equally rewarding in their own way.
As a CAN Support Worker, it’s so fun to get to run around with the kids and get big silly reactions out of them, while also being the person who can help them integrate into new situations. I know how hard that can be because I struggled with it my whole life.
For so long, I felt like I had to hide my feelings and authentic experience just to fit in. Autistic people call this masking. When masking, you’re trying to present yourself in a typical way while suppressing your real feelings and experience. It’s upsetting, overwhelming, and uncomfortable.
For so many years, I was supporting CAN participants without knowing that I, myself, was on the autism spectrum. One of the most liberating things about becoming a CAN participant was knowing that I could leave my mask at the door.
I knew from my experience as CAN Staff that I’d be in a safe space where I could just be my authentic Autistic self.
Even when I’m having a hard day, I know I’m going to be supported. I know I’m going to feel heard. And I know I am going to be welcomed as I am.
Being Autistic, you’re already in a marginalized group. Those who identify as female are marginalized even further. So for me, having an opportunity at CAN like the Women’s Peer Support Group is so important because it creates a safe space for us to feel heard and included. We get to come together monthly to share our similar experiences while supporting and validating each other.
When you’re a person on the spectrum who has low support needs, it actually limits the number of resources that you’re able to access in the community.
CAN is really the only organization that I’m able to access.
If it weren’t for CAN, I wouldn’t be able to go the gym or be a part of social activities like bowling or rock climbing because the facilities are too loud and overstimulating. The experience itself wouldn’t even be enjoyable because I’d be forced to push so hard just to be in that space.
Because of CAN, I’m able to access community activities, be physically active, be social with my friends, and even make new friends.
When I think about it,my favourite thing about CAN is that it’s essentially home.
The people who work at CAN are like an extension of my family. Whether I go to a CAN program or event as a staff or a participant, I feel like I can let go of everything and just be myself.
It’s really the most comfortable and welcoming place that you could ever be.
The Canucks Autism Network (CAN) Pro-Am Hockey Tournament started four years ago from a dream. Building off our provincial community’s deep love of hockey, we envisioned a fundraising event that united NHL Alumni with rec players in support of the cause.
Our inaugural tournament in 2019 featured Canucks legend Daniel Sedin and raised a remarkable $575,000. Year after year, tourney supporters and participants raised more and more — with the top fundraising team earning their first choice of NHL Alumni. Now in its fourth year, the 2022 edition achieved another record-setting amount.
Todd Bertuzzi with top fundraising team, The Constructors.
Held November 18-20, players came from across the Lower Mainland community and beyond for a weekend of hockey, fun and camaraderie. Corporate teams like the Beyonders, Odlum Brown Bulls & Team Sportsnet were comprised of staff from local businesses who support the cause, while teams like the Port Moody Oldtimers and Team Bob Shanks filled their roster with hockey buddies from local rec leagues.
Regardless of their background, each team signed up in 2022 with a common goal — to raise vital funding for CAN programs, training and community engagement initiatives. With a minimum team goal of $20,000, our top fundraising squads absolutely went above and beyond.
For the second consecutive year, The Constructors topped the standings with a remarkable $132,331.
Bob with Canucks Alumni Mason Raymond and Brendan Morrison
So of course, when the individual fundraising standings were finalized, it was Bob Shanks who topped the list once again with $39,615 raised. With thanks to his longtime friend and CAN supporter Paddy Mahony, Bob hosted a pub night fundraiser at Mahony’s Tavern and was tireless in collecting donations from friends, family members and coworkers.
In total, the fundraising period lasted five months. The hard work of over 230 rec players culminated on Friday, November 18, as NHL Alumni from across North America united in Vancouver. Featuring Canucks fan favourites spanning multiple eras, top names included the likes of Todd Bertuzzi, Raffi Torres and Kirk McLean.
The weekend kicked off with the CAN Pro-Am Luncheon, sponsored by ICONIX Waterworks, atThe Westin Bayshore.
Hosted by Satiar Shah of Sportsnet 650, VIP guests were treated to an on-stage Q&A panel with members of the Canucks’ 2011 team — Torres, Jannik Hansen, Mason Raymond and Cody Hodgson.
In addition to the on-stage entertainment, all 18 participating NHL Alumni were seated among our VIP guests.
Despite that group of former pros on-stage, it was CAN hockey dad Gary Bryant who stole the show. Gary shared how he watched his son Mitch fulfill his dream of being a hockey player. Through CAN’s hockey program, Mitch gained the skills and confidence necessary to eventually graduate to the Chilliwack Minor Hockey Association, where he currently plays at the U18 level.
There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.
“Canucks Autism Network allowed Mitchell to believe. [This tournament] plays an important role in writing the next story — in fulfilling the next dream. By supporting CAN, you can help ensure that more barriers are broken. And isn’t that beautiful thing?”
Gary and Mitch Bryant several years ago in the CAN hockey program in Surrey
The Luncheon was immediately followed by an All-Star Reception where Gary and Mitch were welcomed as special guests. Sponsored by NOX, El Santo and Casamigos, the private reception was held exclusively for our top 24 individual fundraisers to enjoy a tequila tasting and tapas experience with all 18 NHL Alumni in attendance.
The evening was finally was topped off by Draft Night, sponsored by Sportsnet 650. The draft order was set based on the final team fundraising standings. With The Constructors holding the top spot, Bertuzzi became the first repeat first overall selection in tournament history (he was previously selected first in 2020). Rounding out the top three, the Beyonders selected Martin Gelinas, while the Ice Grizzlies welcomed Raymond onto their team.
“We need events like the CAN Pro-Am,” Bertuzzi shared. “I was fortunate to play in Vancouver for 10 years and it’s always so great coming back and seeing guys like Brendan Morrison and Brad May. The fundraisers are always so awesome to play with and the amount of money that has been raised is going to such a great cause.”
Heading across the Fraser, we finally dropped the puck on the 2022 tournament the following morning at theNorth Surrey Sport and Ice Complex.
With support from the City of Surrey and Sport Surrey, each team played two games on Saturday and one game on Sunday.
Canucks Alumni Kirk McLean alongside a pair of fundraisers at the CAN Pro-Am All-Star Game.
To cap off the on-ice action, our top 24 fundraisers were treated to a bonus game on Sunday afternoon with six NHL Alumni joining each team. The ceremonial puck drop was preceded by a couple of key Autistic voices from the CAN community. Ryan Chilton was back at the PA mic introducing each player, while CAN & Sarah McLachlan School of Music student and CAN hockey participant Kaiden esang the national anthem.
And with Gary and Mitch kicking off the weekend with their incredible story about CAN’s impact, it was only appropriate that Mitch was invited onto the ice for the feature game. Suiting up for Team Blue, he was joined by former CAN hockey teammate Brandon Carinha. Both Mitch and Brandon scored a goal while skating alongside the likes of Brad May, Brendan Morrison, Hansen and Torres.
John Craighead (NHL Alumni & Surrey Knights owner), Brayden Bradbury (CAN participant & staff member), Christian Aquilini (the inspiration behind CAN), Martin Gelinas & Geoff Courtnall (NHL Alumni), Brandon Carinha (CAN participant)NHL Alumni Cody Hodgson & CAN Hockey Alumni Mitch Bryant
It was a meaningful end to an unforgettable weekend. Participating rec players and NHL Alumni got to see first-hand how CAN helps our participants achieve their dreams. And to quote CAN hockey dad Gary, “Isn’t that a beautiful thing?”
Huge thanks to all the players, coaches, donors, sponsors and supporters who make this tournament possible each and every year.
Photo: Linda Stober, Ken Stober, Keith Brewster, Dave McAnerney and Anne McAnerney at the 2022 ride.
October 26, 2022
Inspired by his nephew MJ, Dave McAnerney started the Rider Cider for Autism in 2015. The ride was founded in an effort to bring more programs and services for individuals on the autism spectrum to Kelowna.
The inaugural event soon grew into what was known as the HM Commercial Ride for Autism, an annual community-building ride that showcased local wineries and cideries, while supporting Canucks Autism Network (CAN).
CAN became Dave’s charity of choice due to the positive impact the organization had on MJ’s life. Dave wanted to ensure that any Kelowna family with a child on the spectrum could benefit from the same life-changing support.
From this year onward, the event will be renamed the Dave McAnerney Ride for Autism in honour of Dave’s passion for cycling and unwavering commitment to the autism community.
Dave’s legacy will live on through this ride and the direct impact it will have on children, youth, and adults on the autism spectrum in Kelowna.
Since launching in Kelowna just seven years ago, hundreds of local families have benefited from CAN’s growing portfolio of sports and rec programs, summer day camps, youth and adult opportunities, and year-round family experiences. None of this growth would have been possible without Dave’s unparalleled efforts to create positive change in his community.
Your support of the Dave McAnerney Ride for Autism will ensure his dream for a better future for people on the autism spectrum will forever live on.
At Canucks Autism Network (CAN), we believe that every individual on the spectrum has the right to play sports. Like all our efforts, we rely on dedicated community support to make that belief a reality.
That’s why it was particularly meaningful to see our friends at Sport Surrey and the City of Surrey join us in hosting the first-ever CAN Hockey Jamboree.
Held this past April 2 at the Surrey Sport & Leisure Complex, the event was an opportunity for CAN Hockey participants and their families to close out the season in style.
City of Surrey Doug McCallum dropped the puck in a ceremonial faceoff between player representatives the CAN Surrey Stingrays & Surrey Knights Junior B Team.
Our hockey program features over 60 young athletes on the autism spectrum on four teams across the Lower Mainland — the Vancouver Orcas (youth & adult), Coquitlam Sharks (youth) and Surrey Stingrays (youth). Each team practices on a weekly basis, honing their skills, while forging meaningful social connections.
With the season culminating on April 2, players and their families were given the star treatment. As partners of the City of Surrey and longtime CAN supporters, the Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society were on hand to serve up hot dogs and treats. And with the event also taking place on World Autism Day, Mayor Doug McCallum joined the players on the ice to drop the ceremonial puck.
The end-of-year event was made possible with support from Sport Surrey.Surrey Fire Fighters serving up a BBQ lunch for the participating players and families.
After a series of scrimmages for our players to showcase their talents, parents and siblings were also invited onto the ice for a family skate.
“On behalf of City of Surrey – Parks, Recreation and Culture staff, it was our pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all the athletes, coaches, officials, and volunteers participating in the Canucks Autism Network – Hockey Jamboree 2022” said Manvir Aujla, Community Services Assistant for Universal Design and Accessibility Services. “The City of Surrey is committed to creating a world where all on the autism spectrum can reach their full potential and encourages everyone to learn more about autism and how we can support the diverse needs. Also, a huge thank you to all the organizers and volunteers who have worked hard to make this a successful event!”
The Vancouver Orcas’ adult team takes a break from the action.The Coquitlam Sharks are CAN’s newest hockey team.
While the celebration was generously funded by Sport Surrey, the City of Surrey’s involvement with CAN extends far beyond this one-day event.
In addition to collaborating with the city to increase accessibility in community spaces, they have opened the doors of their pools, rinks and gyms to host CAN programs for years.
In particular, the CAN Hockey program in Surrey operates out of the same rink as the Pacific Junior Hockey League’s Surrey Knights. So, when team owner John Craighead heard about our team, he went above and beyond to make sure they felt welcome.
The Knights opened their private dressing room to our young athletes. They made personalized name bars to be placed above each player’s stall. And best of all, Knights players were on hand for each weekly practice to mentor and guide our participants.
The Surrey Stingrays have been part of the CAN hockey program for a number of years.The CAN Surrey Stingrays faced off against their mentors, the Surrey Knights Junior B Team.
So of course, on the day of the CAN Hockey Jamboree, Knights players joined each of our four teams on the ice for their scrimmage.
“Individuals on the spectrum often face barriers to participation in sports & rec,” said Romdoul Long, CAN Program Coordinator & event organizer.
“So to see three different groups from the City of Surrey community come together to support our participants – what an incredible way to celebrate acceptance on World Autism Day.”
On behalf of all 60+ families in attendance at the CAN Hockey Jamboree, thank you to Sport Surrey, the City of Surrey, Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society and the Surrey Knights.
We are so proud to have been selected by the Coquitlam Express for their Shaw Brighter Communities initiative. From now until May 31, 2022, fans can make a $10 donation by texting CQTKIDS to 41010. Shaw will match all text-to-donate contributions! Full details at bchl.ca/shaw.
This initiative comes on the heels of the Express’ first-ever Autism Acceptance Game, hosted this past February.
March 21, 2022
The Coquitlam Express have been a mainstay in the Tri-Cities since 2001. Playing out of Poirier Sport & Leisure Complex, the BCHL team is committed to fostering inclusion and accessibility in their community.
So when Express Vice President and General Manager Tali Campbell heard that our Coquitlam Sharks youth team played out of the same arena, he was immediately motivated to connect with us.
“Going to a hockey game, we often don’t think about the loud horn, the music, the fans cheering — but for someone on the autism spectrum, it becomes a very sensory rich environment,” said Campbell in an interview with Global News. “And sometimes it becomes too much. It’s long overdue that we become an accessible arena for everyone, including those on the autism spectrum.”
Led by Tali’s belief in accessibility, the Express partnered with CAN to host their first-ever Autism Acceptance Game on Sunday, February 27. Over 100 CAN families were invited to watch a marquee match up against the Alberni Valley Bulldogs.
With CAN’s support, the Express had sensory-friendly kits on-hand and a designated Quiet Room for any fan who might benefit. Both resources can be accessed at any Express home game by visiting the merchandise sales window.
Each kit contains noise-cancelling headphones, sensory toys and a game timeline.
Throughout the afternoon, the game showcased a number of key autistic voices, figures and talents within the CAN community. A couple of CAN participants expertly shared the mic, as Ryan Chilton (28 years old) announced the starting lineup and Jayden Weiss (12) sang the national anthem.
Meanwhile, the ceremonial puck drop was performed by Christian Aquilini, the young man who inspired Paolo and Clara to found CAN in 2008.
Canucks Co-Owners Paolo & Clara Aquilini founded CAN with a desire to create more opportunities for individuals on the spectrum like Christian.
And at first intermission, the young members of the CAN Coquitlam Sharks showcased their talents during an intrasquad scrimmage.
The Coquitlam Sharks team also debuted their brand new jerseys at the game!
As the focus shifted back on the BCHL contest, the hundreds of CAN members in attendance were treated to a 3-2 win, as the Express staved off a late push from the visiting Bulldogs. But the festivities didn’t end at the final buzzer.
With the Express players in good spirits from their win, each CAN family was invited onto the ice for a post-game skate with the victors! It was a true joy to see this team of junior athletes bond with our young CAN players.
And for any non-hockey playing members who were looking to steady themselves on the ice, an Express player was never far to lend a helping hand.
We like to think that the Express had some added motivation to connect with our participants that afternoon. It was actually behind the scenes that perhaps one of the most inspiring moments of the day took place.
Sylvain Formo, a young adult on the spectrum, was invited to speak to the entire Express team. He shared about his experience growing up as a goalie, before joining the CAN staff team as a coach.
“I know you’ll be with the CAN kids after the game during the family skate,” said Sylvain. “Just take a second to get to know each kid. Each kid is different and you’ll probably learn something you never knew before.”
Based on the beaming smiles that we saw on both the Express players and the CAN families’ faces, it’s safe to say that they took Sylvain’s words to heart.
“We’re thankful to Canucks Autism Network for working with us on this event,” said Tali. “I’m learning. My staff are learning. And our players are learning.”
CAN CEO Britt Andersen, CAN hockey dad Rob DeGoey, Express VP & GM Tali Campbell and Express Event Director Rick Nelson.
At CAN, our vision is for every individual on the spectrum to be understood, accepted, and supported in all community spaces. Thank you to Tali and the entire Coquitlam Express organization for taking meaningful steps in this direction.
As we continue to celebrate Donor Appreciation Month at Canucks Autism Network (CAN), we want to recognize Vancouver International Airport (YVR) for their ongoing support.
As a longtime community partner, YVR’s work with us has naturally focused on increasing autism accessibility within their walls. But in recent years, they have expanded their commitment to CAN by dedicating vital funding towards our training initiatives province-wide. This is their story.
February 18, 2022
For years, CAN & YVR’s Autism Accessibility Tour was a highly-anticipated staple in our event calendar. Held annually from 2014-19, the event provided a simulated travel experience for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, while introducing them to vital accessibility resources that remain available year-round at YVR.
These events allowed kids, youth and adults to familiarize themselves with the check-in, security screening and boarding process, launching them into a world of air travel possibilities.
“Ensuring the airport is accessible and a place of welcome for all is a top priority at YVR,” said Richard Beed, Vice President of People and Brand at the Vancouver Airport Authority.
Kerry and her son (pictured in 2019) are among hundreds of families who have benefited from CAN & YVR’s annual Autism Accessibility Tours.
As part of the partnership, YVR staff and partners also received valuable autism training.
“The familiarization tours and training sessions have provided an opportunity to educate our teams and partners, share best practices, and learn ways we can support individuals and families based on their needs and preferences,” added Cathy Nyfors, Manager of Passenger Programs at YVR.
Due to COVID-19, we haven’t been able to deliver the tours since 2019. We are hopeful that we will be able to re-introduce the YVR event in the very near future.
But in the absence of the annual tour, YVR has found new ways to broaden their support of CAN.
In recent years, we have been so thankful to see our local airport authority become a key funder. Those involved with the CAN Virtual Challenge will remember YVR as the fundraiser’s presenting sponsor in both 2020 and 2021.
After leading by example, they now provide funding to ensure our work with them is duplicated far and wide across BC. Knowing the benefits of the training is what inspired YVR to help fund our efforts to increase accessibility across community settings.
With YVR’s help, CAN provided training to over 40 different organizations in 2021.
From sports & rec providers to educators to first responders and employers, those efforts have amounted to over 1,000 individuals are now equipped to include individuals on the spectrum in their community spaces.
We are so grateful to have had YVR’s support for over eight years now. At CAN, we believe that every community should take action to include and support autistic individuals. It is only together that we can make real change.
For so many years, I was supporting CAN participants without knowing that I, myself, was on the autism spectrum. One of the most liberating things about becoming a CAN participant was knowing that I could leave my mask at the door.
