Category: News

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Vancouver and Halifax, Canada – On Tuesday, March 22th, 2022, Autism Nova Scotia (Autism NS) and Canucks Autism Network (CAN) launched a free online training for employers, HR professionals, or anyone looking to improve mental health supports for Autistic employees and job seekers in the workplace.  

The free training, funded by Ready, Willing, and Able, is self-paced and covers the following topics: 

  • Explanation of autism and the mental health concerns that Autistic individuals often encounter in the workplace 
  • Practical low-cost or no-cost strategies that are critical to the well-being of Autistic employees, yet benefit all employees 
  • Strategies on how to identify and respond to a mental health crisis from an autism-aware lens 
  • How to direct employees to external mental health resources  
  • How to select inclusive employee benefits 

A group of advisors based in Ontario, Nova Scotia, and British Columbia came together to advise on the development of the training. The group was made up of Autistic advocates, employers who recruit or hire inclusively, and clinicians who support the mental health of Autistic youth and adults. Managers in Workplace Mental Health with the Mental Health Commission of Canada also provided constructive feedback on the training. 

Kevin A., an Autistic advocate and professional, was among the group of advisors.

“Minimizing noise can be simple and beneficial in many workplaces”, stated A. “But it’s also important that everyone in the workplace knows what autism is, so that Autistic people’s behaviour isn’t misinterpreted as ‘inappropriate’, or so that they can get direct, clear feedback rather than being left to ‘read between the lines’.” 

Tammy Morris, Neurodiversity Centres of Excellence Leader for EY Canada, was also a part of the advisory group. 

 “It is great to see a disability resource that brings together healthcare insurance benefits, EFAP, and public supports, offering a full picture for employers, employees and job seekers who have had to navigate silos,” said Morris. “The training is a good balance of informational content, definitions, videos, case scenarios and take away tips.”   

CAN and Autism NS see the training as a step towards addressing the gap in mental health supports for Autistic youth and adults in Canada.   

“We know there are critical service gaps in mental health supports for Autistic youth and adults across Canada. This online training was created in direct response to that growing need and is a crucial step towards addressing the issue” said Cynthia Carroll, Executive Director of Autism Nova Scotia. 

CAN CEO Britt Andersen further noted, “The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the employment and job search of many individuals on the spectrum who were already facing pre-existing barriers to employment. Our goal with the training is to equip employers with better knowledge and resources to support employees or job applicants on the spectrum.”  

Learn more or access the training >

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

About Autism Nova Scotia (Autism NS)
Autism Nova Scotia is a community-based organization that builds understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for Autistics/individuals on the Autism Spectrum and their families through leadership, advocacy, education, training and programming across the lifespan. 

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For media inquiries:
Lindsay Petrie, Director of Marketing & Communications
Canucks Autism Network
lindsay.petrie@canucksautism.ca
604.788.8565 

Mariann Peters, Executive Assistant 
Autism Nova Scotia 
mpeters@autismns.ca 
902.446.4995, ext.61 

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

As we look forward to welcoming participants back for winter programs in 2021, please note the following important changes to participant safety:

Physical Distancing

  • Participants and staff will be required to maintain a distance of 3 metres on the field of play, and 2 metres off the field of play

In/Outs

  • After the program has begun, there should be no additional participants, parents, or staff members entering or exiting the facility. The entire group should exit the facility together at the end of the program
  • In the case of emergency (e.g., parent must enter to provide critical support), CAN staff must notify the front desk of who has entered the building

Spitting/Water Bottles

  • There should be no spitting and no spraying of bottles during the program
  •  These actions will be strictly enforced by staff

Notification in the event of a positive case

  • CAN will contact the local public health authority to receive instructions for how to proceed
  • CAN will contact the facility in which the program occurred to inform them of the exposure

As always, the most up to date in-person program safety plan can be found at www.canucksautism.ca/safetyplan.

For all relevant health and safety updates and documents, please visit www.canucksautism.ca/health.

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

*Revised November 17, 2020

In addition to Saturday’s announcement suspending all Lower Mainland indoor programming for the next two weeks, we would like to further outline the steps that Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is taking to ensure our alignment with new provincial health orders.

Stay up-to-date on all CAN program and health updates at canucksautism.ca/health.

Suspended In-Person Programs

All Lower Mainland indoor in-person programs are suspended until Tues, Nov 24.

  • Active (3-6yrs) & Multisport (7-12yrs)
    Burnaby (Scotia Barn), Langley (TOCA), Maple Ridge (Maple Ridge Leisure Centre), New Westminster (Futbol 5), Surrey (Uplands Sports Centre), Vancouver (Britannia, Jewish & West Point Grey Community Centres)
  • Skate (3-6 & 7-12yrs)
    Coquitlam (Poirier Sports & Leisure Complex) & Vancouver (Britannia Arena)

Suspension of these programs is in alignment with provincial health orders to suspend all indoor group physical activities in the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions.

*We will provide another update towards the end of the two-week suspension period on Friday, November 20 as we anticipate an announcement from provincial health authorities on Thursday, November 19 at 3pm.

Continued In-Person Programs

All Lower Mainland outdoor in-person programs will continue as scheduled.

  • Active (3-6yrs) & Multisport (7-12yrs)
    Vancouver (Hillcrest Park) & Surrey (Cloverdale Athletic Park)
  • Monthly Youth & Adult (13-17 & 18+yrs)*
    Surrey (Bear Creek Park)
    *Please note that this program was mistakenly listed as suspended in our original Saturday announcement.

Continuing these programs remains in alignment with provincial health orders permitting outdoor activities, as long as physical distancing can be maintained.

Our program team has carefully assessed each program. We are confident in our ability to safely deliver outdoor programs while enforcing necessary health precautions.

All Kelowna, Kamloops and Nanaimo programs will continue as scheduled:

  • Active (3-6yrs) & Multisport (7-12yrs)
    Kelowna (Mar Jok Elementary School) & Kamloops (West Highlands Community Centre)
  • Skate (3-6 & 7-12yrs)
    Kelowna (Capital News Centre) & Nanaimo (Cliff McNabb Arena)

Continuing these programs remains in alignment with provincial health orders as new restrictions apply only to the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions.

Upcoming Family Experiences

All Family Experiences across BC will continue as scheduled:

  • Glow Gardens (Greater Vancouver Zoo, Langley)
  • Bright Nights Train (Stanley Park, Vancouver)
  • Holiday Skate (Propsera Place, Kelowna)

Provincial health orders continue to permit outdoor gatherings, as long as families/households can maintain physical distancing.

Both Family Experiences at Glow Gardens and the Bright Nights Train in the Lower Mainland are set to take place in large open spaces, while Prospera Place in Kelowna does not fall under indoor restrictions for the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions.

We have been working hard with all three venues to ensure that all the necessary precautions are in place to ensure strict health and safety protocols.

Confirmed safety measures include, but are not limited to, one-way paths, signage to enforce physical distancing, ample personal protective equipment available to all attendees and removal/adaptation of high-touch spaces or attractions.

Virtual Programs & Winter 2021 Update

Our team is working hard to expand virtual opportunities for the Winter season. We are excited to share with you some fun new opportunities for children, youth and adults. Our Winter Program Guide is set to be released in late-November.

Registration for in-person and virtual weekly programming will take place Monday, November 30 at noon to Friday, December 4 at noon.

In the meantime, participants and families are encouraged to access pre-recorded program content at canucksautism.ca/online. This includes two 8-week sports and rec programs – Active with Coach Neesh and Multisport with Coach Robbie – and much more.

Ongoing program safety

Our team continues to follow all of the latest recommendations from the health authorities for safe program operations. As new information becomes available, we will continue to update our already comprehensive Safety Plan and ensure that we are always offering CAN programs in alignment with best practices.

We will provide more details on specific changes in our next update by Thursday, November 19.

Next update 

*Canucks Autism Network will provide another update towards the end of the two-week suspension period on Friday, November 20 as we anticipate an announcement from provincial health authorities on Thursday, November 19 at 3pm.

Please stay tuned to our social channels, canucksautism.ca/health and the monthly member newsletter.

Our team is keeping a watchful and discerning eye on any subsequent provincial health updates. We are working hard to ensure that our in-person programming will remain in accordance with official health orders and guidelines.

Our team is ready to take action to continue in-person and indoor programming in the affected regions as soon as provincial health authorities allow. In the meantime, it is of utmost importance to protect the health and safety of both the CAN community and the larger provincial community we are a part of.

We are here for you.

We recognize the challenges that our members face during this difficult time. For those affected by suspension of in-person and indoor programming, please know that we are here for you. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, don’t hesitate to email info@canucksautism.ca.

During this time, the community of support that we can provide for each other is more important that ever before. To our entire CAN community – know that we are working hard to continue supporting you in new and creative ways.

Whether it is online or in-person, please continue to be kind, be calm and be safe.

Additional reading & resources

Health Updates | canucksautism.ca/health

CAN Online Resources | canucksautism.ca/online

Stay connected:
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIN

PRESS RELEASE

$1 MILLION 50/50 ESTIMATED JACKPOT LAUNCHED FOR CANUCKS AUTISM NETWORK
…Canucks for Kids Fund’s online 50/50 will raise funds for Canucks Autism Network to replace cancelled fundraising events due to COVID-19

Vancouver, B.C. –  The Canucks for Kids Fund, in partnership with Canucks Autism Network (CAN), is excited to announce a special 50/50 draw where the jackpot is expected to surpass $1 million with a guaranteed minimum prize of $500,000!

Proceeds will help replace Canucks Autism Network fundraising events that were either cancelled or postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the CAN Pro-Am, Fishing for Kids Tournament and HM Commercial Ride for Autism.

Tickets are on-sale now at canucks.com/online5050. Sales will continue through 9:30 pm Monday, November 2nd.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has been a huge challenge for our beneficiaries, so we are doing what we can to support the Canucks Autism Network and others in the weeks and months ahead,” said Paolo Aquilini, President of the Canucks for Kids Fund. “Canucks fans have been so incredibly generous and this online 50/50 gives all of us a chance to help children and families when they need it the most.”

“CAN’s ability to raise funds during the pandemic has been significantly impacted, yet the community need to help kids, youth and adults with autism has never been greater,” said Britt Andersen, CEO at Canucks Autism Network. “Funds from this 50/50 will be absolutely vital in helping us continue virtual programs that have allowed us to reach participants isolated at home, while re-introducing in-person programs in the safest way possible.”

Since March, CAN has developed 14 weekly virtual programs, filling over 700 program spots. Ranging from pre-recorded videos to live programs hosted on Zoom, programs have included Virtual Hockey, Movement, Movie Club and more.

Meanwhile, in-person programs are being gradually reintroduced with strict health regulations in place across the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island and Interior. Already, hundreds of participants and families have benefited while adhering to heightened safety protocols and physical distancing.

This 50/50 raffle is the first of several planned in the coming weeks as the Canucks for Kids Fund supports its beneficiaries impacted financially due to the pandemic. The next raffle begins at 9:00 am, Tuesday, November 3, 2020 and will support Special Olympics BC.

The Canucks for Kids fund held online 50/50 raffles supporting Covid-19 Relief efforts and most recently during the Canucks playoff run.  The previous raffles generated $3,652,213 ($7,304,425 total jackpot) for local charities, including organizations supporting community nourishment, mental health, and children’s support programming during COVID-19 relief efforts.

ON-LINE 50/50 INFORMATION:
Fans can select from one of four ticket pack options:

  • 3 Tickets for $5
  • 7 Tickets for $10
  • 50 Tickets for $20
  • 150 Tickets for $50

The prize is 50 per cent of the total jackpot amount.  The winning ticket number will be posted online at Canucks.com/5050tickets shortly after each draw.

Online tickets can only be purchased by fans located within BC’s borders. Must be 19 to play. Know your limit, play within it. BC Gaming Event License # 126880. The 50/50 raffle is powered by Ascend Fundraising Solutions.

Canucks Autism Network 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.

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Jan 21, 2020

Kelowna, BC – On Sunday, January 26th, Canucks Autism Network (CAN) and Kelowna International Airport (YLW) will host their third annual YLW Accessibility Tour for individuals with autism and their families. Held from 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in the YLW WestJet check-in area, over 70 individuals are expected at the event.

Due to anxiety or sensory sensitivities, air travel can present significant challenges for individuals with autism. The tour will take families through the entire pre-flight process, including check-in, security, finding their gate and boarding a plane.

Families will also receive Resource Kits with tools to better prepare for air travel, including an activity storybook, step-by-step checklist, tips for travel and airport map. The kits are available for departing travelers at any time at the YLW Information Kiosk.

YLW’s partnership with CAN also aims to educate airport staff and volunteers on how to accommodate individuals with autism and better anticipate challenging situations.

“We are thrilled to work with YLW once again to increase autism accessibility at the airport,” said Britt Andersen, Canucks Autism Network’s Chief Executive Officer. “Because of this tour, individuals with autism and their families can more confidently navigate the airport, opening up a world of travel opportunities.”

Originally developed with Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in 2014, CAN successfully expanded the program to YLW in 2017. In addition to being hosted by CAN and YLW, the YLW Accessibility Tour is offered in collaboration with the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), WestJet and Autism Okanagan.

“For many families and individuals living with autism, travel can be very difficult,” said Sam Samaddar, Airport Director, Kelowna International Airport. “The YLW Accessibility Tour is about giving families the freedom to fly by experiencing the travel process at the airport firsthand.”

For more information about YLW’s autism accessibility resources, please visit ylw.kelowna.ca/autism.

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Media wishing to attend must RSVP with name and media outlet by Friday, January 24, at 1 p.m. to Stephanie Trenholm at strenholm@kelowna.ca

When: Sunday, January 26, 2020

9:30 – 10:00 a.m. Media registration

10:00 – 11:15 a.m. Families check-in

11:30 – 11:50 a.m. Families board plane *no media availability

12:20 – 12:45 p.m. Families return to check-in area

Note: Due to security restrictions, media will not be allowed to pass through security.

Where: Register at WestJet check-in area (see media registration table)

Who: Canucks Autism Network participating families
Sam Samaddar, Airport Director, YLW
Samantha Hanley, Onsite Coordinator, Canucks Autism Network

Parking: Media can park in the short-term lot and bring in their vouchers to be validated.

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

For media interviews with CAN, please contact:
Hallie Mitchell
Manager of Training & Community Engagement
604-685-4049 ext 219
hallie.mitchell@canucksautism.ca

About Kelowna International Airport (YLW)
As the 10th busiest airport in Canada, YLW’s total economic impact is 4,545 jobs and $789 million in total economic output to the province of British Columbia. Serving over 2 million passengers in 2019, YLW offers more than 70 daily non-stop commercial flights with nine airline partners. For more information, visit ylw.kelowna.ca.

For media interviews with YLW, please contact:
Stephanie Trenholm
Communications Advisor
strenholm@kelowna.ca

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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

POKÉRRITO TO SERVE UP SUPPORT FOR CANUCKS AUTISM NETWORK
Poké eatery to donate 100% of sales on December 3 to local autism charity

VANCOUVER, B.C. (November 29, 2019) – Since opening its doors in 2016, Pokérrito has been making waves across Vancouver’s food scene with their innovative menu and signature poké burritos. The Vancouver-based poké restaurant is now looking to make an even bigger impact by giving back to the local community. On December 3rd, 100% of all sales across Pokérrito’s four locations will be donated to Canucks Autism Network (CAN).

“We are proud to team up with Canucks Autism Network which is a cause that is close to our hearts,” says Founder Jung Moon. “As a parent of a seven-year-old son with autism, it is important to my wife and I to spread the word about autism and the support that CAN provides to families like mine.”

“We are thrilled to see that such a popular Poké eatery in the city is committed to giving back to the autism community,” says Ryan Yao, Director of Strategic Partnerships. “Funds raised on December 3rd will help provide programs to children, youth and adults with autism and their families living in BC. With 1 in 46 BC children diagnosed with autism, this kind of community-level support is more important than ever.”

Pokérrito has four locations in the Lower Mainland: Dunsmuir, Hornby, Robson, and Marine Way Market. Stores will open from 11am-9pm on Tuesday, December 3rd.

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About Pokérrito
Pokérrito was established to bring a new food that provides a modern and healthy lifestyle into the Vancouver dining industry. Their mission is to provide customers with a healthy yet tasty eating experience through the harmonious combinations of signature sauces and fresh ingredients.

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

Media Contacts

Jung Moon, Founder
Pokérrito
778-389-7735
jung@pokerrito.ca		 Ryan Yao, Director of Strategic Partnerships
Canucks Autism Network
604-724-9686
ryan.yao@canucksautism.ca

 

 

 

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