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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

by Keara Farnan

In honour of Autism Acceptance Month this year, I participated in a CAN video that highlighted the important distinction between being aware of autistic people and being accepting of them. I think it’s very crucial to be accepting and inclusive to individuals of all different abilities because everyone deserves mutual respect and kindness.

When I first found out I had autism at age seven, I didn’t understand what that meant, let alone how receiving an autism diagnosis would impact my life moving forward. On the outside I didn’t look autistic, but within, I felt very different from my peers. I was very quiet and kept to myself most of the time. I didn’t enjoy hanging out with other children my age. Reading body language and facial expressions was challenging for me, and this is something I still struggle with as an adult.

I have always had a tough time accepting myself. However, in the last few years, I have realized I should not pay that much attention to how others perceive me. I am still learning to embrace my autism and think of my diagnosis as a blessing rather than something I should be ashamed of.

I have always been very open and honest about my diagnosis because it is a part of who I am. I don’t want to have to hide this part of myself in order for others to accept me.

It’s not something I feel anyone should have to do. That is why I wanted to be a part of this video that challenges the wider community to be more accepting and supportive of people on the spectrum.

Through sharing my story, I hope that more people on the spectrum will be inspired to speak their truth and support the movement from awareness to acceptance. By incorporating autism acceptance into my life, I have felt more comfortable interacting with neurotypical individuals. I don’t feel as much of a need to hide my autism. I am also starting to get to a place where I can openly speak about my struggles with my friends and family.

As a writer who has written two books on autism spectrum disorder, I feel as though I am better able to express myself through written output. Sometimes when I am speaking to other people, the words get jumbled up in my head and I have trouble forming sentences even though I know what I would like to say. I believe that we all have a story to tell and that our voice should be heard and not silenced. I am constantly learning how to be comfortable with sharing my stories with other people. I feel as though writing brings out the best and helps me and helps me hone my creative skills. I am able to speak honestly about how I feel, and this is something, which I have trouble doing verbally.

Visit kearafarnan.com to learn more about her self-published book I Only See in Black & White.

It’s taken me years to accept my autism diagnosis and I think it’s because I didn’t really understand myself when I was younger. I wasn’t sure why I would get angry with other people if they didn’t want to be my friend, and these negative thoughts would often lead to depression. I tried to switch to a more positive way of thinking and tell myself that it wasn’t my fault if other people didn’t want to hang out with me or get to know me. But, still the hurt and animosity would catch up to me.

I didn’t know how to handle these emotions and I didn’t understand why I was feeling this way. It’s taken me 26 years to learn to accept myself and come to terms with my autism diagnosis. However, sometimes I have bad days where I feel as though nothing is going right, and those around me don’t understand how I am feeling. My life is not perfect and I don’t think it’s ever going to be and this is something I have learned to accept.

Practicing autism acceptance has become a huge part of my daily routine.  I encourage other individuals on the spectrum to practice autism acceptance as well.

But more importantly, I encourage the community at large to choose acceptance.

Through writing and telling my story, I hope that I can inspire other autistic individuals to become more comfortable with their diagnosis. I believe that everyone is unique and special in their own way, and this is something I wish I would have come to realize earlier in life. Autism doesn’t define who I am as an individual, but it’s a small part of who I am. And a part that I am proud of.

-Keara Farnan

More from Keara:

Keara Farnan: Keeping it fresh & healthy

Keara Farnan: My life with autism

Keara Farnan: My experience coping with change during COVID-19

Keara Farnan: Climbing new heights with CAN

Keara Farnan: Maintaining a ‘sense of belonging’ during COVID-19

RETURN TO BLOG HOME

In what is now an annual tradition, the Vancouver Canucks held their Autism Acceptance Game against the Vegas Golden Knights this past Sunday.

And while the overtime loss wasn’t the on-ice result we were hoping for, it was the team’s community impact that took centre stage.

Since 2008, the Canucks and Canucks For Kids Fund have been our most vital supporters. It was 14 years ago that Canucks Autism Network (CAN) was founded by Paolo and Clara Aquilini, whose son Christian is on the autism spectrum.

Once again, the celebration was presented by Herbaland, a local vitamin and supplement gummy producer. After committing to giving 20% of all online sales from March 24-31, Herbaland kicked off the festivities with a $5,000 donation to CAN.

Throughout the evening, the Canucks put the spotlight on CAN participants and the importance of supporting and including individuals on the spectrum in our community.

For the second straight year, anthem singer Gavin Leong (13 years old) and PA announcer Ryan Chilton (28) were featured at the mic.

A former student of the CAN & Sarah McLachlan School of Music program, Gavin has sung at a number of CAN events over the years. Meanwhile, Ryan is a professional announcer and voice over artist who has forged a bond with Canucks PA announcer Al Murdoch.

Gavin was joined at ice level by a couple of young CAN athletes from the Coquitlam Sharks hockey team.

Mikael Raptis (11) was chosen for the Rogers Every Kid’s Dream program, joining the starting lineup at the blueline. Meanwhile, his teammate Kayen DeGoey (10) experienced the pre-game warm up as the Toyota Junior Trainer of the Game.

Mikael (left) and Kayen (right) had just completed their first year of CAN Hockey the day before the game.

And just before puck drop, it was Bob Shanks, a 29-year-old on the spectrum, who cranked the BCLC Community Hero Siren. Over the course of 10 years, Bob has single-handedly raised over $300,000 for CAN. A community hero, indeed.

After the 1st period, it was CAN Founder Paolo Aquilini and CEO Britt Andersen‘s turn to highlight the cause.

Paolo sat with Sportsnet 650 host Satiar Shah, whose brother is also on the autism spectrum. On the Sportsnet telecast, Britt joined Dan Murphy to let viewers know how to support the work that CAN does across BC and beyond.

Listen to Paolo’s interview >

Watch Britt’s interview >

 

While the evening featured so many different key individuals from CAN, it’s important to note the work that the Canucks do year-round to support autism acceptance.

In addition to providing vital funding through 50/50 and a number of charitable initiatives, the Canucks have partnered with CAN to make resources available at Rogers Arena for any fan on the spectrum (or anyone with sensory sensitivities) who might benefit.

Resources include noise-cancelling headphones, sensory toys, ID bracelets and a Quiet Room available upon request. For Canucks games specifically, fans can also benefit form an activity storybook to help illustrate what to expect.

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

Looking for ways to support the cause, while commemorating the event?

  • Canucks players wore limited edition hoodies celebrating the cause.
    Get your own Canucks x CAN hoodie at vanbase.ca. Proceeds support CAN!
  • Proceeds from Canucks 50/50 benefit CAN & a range of other deserving charities.
    Fans can buy tickets in-game and online.
  • Or make a donation directly to CAN!
    Visit canucksautism.ca/donate.

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

Further reading

Coquitlam Express welcome hundreds for Autism Acceptance Game

Dear Canucks Autism Network: A letter from a CAN Hockey parent

Kourosh Ershad: From CAN Hockey to North Van Minor; living his dream

Goalie on the spectrum finds calling coaching hockey

CAN BLOG HOME

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 

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.

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.

Watch Jayden’s anthem performance in its entirety >

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.

Further reading

Goalie with autism finds calling coaching CAN Hockey

Sylvain Formo: Changing my thoughts about autism

CAN & YVR: Launching a community of support

 

 

CAN BLOG HOME

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.

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.

Beyond sponsorship, YVR’s financial support is essential to our Training and Community Engagement initiatives.

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.

Among those who received training in 2021 are North Shore fire fighters, police officers and search & rescue volunteers.

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.

Thank you, YVR!

Learn more

For more info on autism accessibility at YVR, please visit yvr.ca/autism.
For more information on CAN training, please visit canucksautism.ca/training.

Feature stories

Learning to fly ‘without apology’ with YVR
One family’s story from the annual accessibility tour in 2019

North Shore commits to safer community for autism population
An unprecedented partnership with North Vancouver City & District Fire, North Vancouver RCMP & North Shore Rescue

El Santo: Serving up support for CAN and the community
A donor spotlight: Local CAN dad and restaurant owner gives back

My whole life, things have just been a little bit harder for me.

Harder to make friends. Harder at school. Harder to feel good about myself. But CAN has been by my side almost my entire life. Every step of the way, they’ve helped me realize just how much I can do.

My name is Nate Keller and I am a 19-year-old on the autism spectrum.

One of my earliest memories with CAN was when I was just six years old. My mom signed me up for their soccer camp at Eric Hamber. I was super nervous because I didn’t know anyone. I only knew me. I felt so scared I could barely look up. My hands felt like they were glued inside the pockets of my favourite black Adidas pants.

But something about the people there made me feel better. I remember feeling comforted by the staff. It felt like they already knew me somehow. They had a special way of making me feel safe. They made me feel like I belonged.

My mom says that I used to start every day by asking if it was a CAN day because then I would know that it would be a good day.

When I was little, CAN programs like soccer and basketball helped me learn to play sports like the other kids my age. Then when I became a teenager, I found myself caring more about social stuff, like making friends.

When the CAN Hockey program started, I knew I wanted to join. I made some of my best friends on the team.



We got to go to tournaments and stay in hotels, like other kids who played hockey. I loved being with the guys and talking to them on the bus and blasting trap music in the locker room. We had so much in common and we just understood each other, because they were like me and I was like them. Even the CAN staff made it easy for me to talk to them. They were always a good place to go when I needed support.

At school, I don’t always understand the jokes and things that other kids talk about. I had friends at school but it was hard to talk to them sometimes and I didn’t always feel included. I used to be really nervous talking about my autism because I couldn’t tell if people were curious or just making fun of me. CAN made me realize that my autism was not something bad, but something special and unique about me. CAN made me feel good about myself and who I am. I didn’t know I could feel like that.

After so many years with CAN, I decided that I wanted to help younger kids like me by sharing my own experience with autism. I joined CAN’s Youth and Adult Leadership group and it taught me how to be confident. It taught me that my voice matters.

I then started volunteering for CAN so I could thank them for everything they did for me. Now I have this dream of working for CAN because I love the people there.

They understand me and how I think. They give us a safe place and make us feel good about ourselves. I want to do that for other kids. I want them to know that people will love you because of your autism.

I want them to know that having autism is special. It’s nothing to be ashamed of.

I was recently asked what life would be like without CAN. The answer is easy. Life without CAN would be very hard.

Everything I have done at CAN has really helped me over the years. CAN allowed me to gain confidence and build a community of people I could talk to. CAN helped me become more happy with myself. I don’t think I could have made friends or joined the swim club or track team at school if I didn’t have CAN. But mostly, I don’t think I would have a good outlook on the world if it weren’t for CAN.

I guess I don’t know for sure where my life would be without CAN. Thank you to all the staff, volunteers, and donors that make CAN programs possible.

Nate Keller
CAN Participant, Volunteer, and Future Staff

More CAN Stories

Brayden: “I believe I can be something in this world.”

“I can tell my brother loves CAN, because…”

Sarah Russell: “CAN is home to me.”

 

Is for real? I think to myself.

I’m picking my son up, all I said is hi (I didn’t even have to ask how he is!) and he’s responding to me with the biggest smile on his face saying, “Mom, I’m really happy today.” I couldn’t believe it.

This moment was really meaningful to me because after all these years, Eric never said anything about his feelings. Never. I even forgot to respond because I was so shocked!

My name is Wei and I am the proud mom of Eric, my 19-year old son who has autism. Canucks Autism Network (CAN) programs have been our safe space for the past 10 years. We first registered Eric for a CAN program when he was 9 and a half, and I would like to share our journey with you.

As a mom of an Autistic child, I live every day with anxiety and it’s very draining – constantly feeling like you have to defend your child, yourself, and your family. When these negative feelings build up, it’s very hard to focus on anything else.

But every time I send Eric to a CAN program, I feel relaxed, at peace, and I trust that he is in a safe space. I get a break from always being on high-awareness. From music to sports to job-readiness programs, I know that Eric is always surrounded by positive support when he is with CAN and he always comes home happier.

This is a photo of the first time Eric ever asked me to take a picture with him. He’s usually very resistant to taking photos but he was so proud of himself for graduating from CAN’s Employment Program that he wanted to share it with me.

This special moment will always remind me of a change in Eric that I never thought I would see. I will remember this for the rest of my life.

Every gift will help cover the true cost of ~$500/participant in a multi-week youth and young adult program.

Your generosity will help build a bright and happy future for someone like Eric.

Many of the skills that Eric has learned through CAN programs, he has been able to apply in real life. He is now curious about what’s going on, he takes more responsibility and he even does chores like putting things away, setting up the table, and helping to carry things. He is more happy, calm, and soft. He’ll say sorry to me, he’ll ask me if I’m okay, and I can just tell he is more caring. I finally feel loved by my only child and we have become so much closer.

Having CAN as a safe space has helped us to grow confident when we go out in the community too because I can generalize these feelings of trust, safety, and happiness to different areas of my life. When I feel emotionally safe, that’s when I’m able to open up mentally to more positive experiences. It’s been very inspiring to watch Eric live life with so much more joy and laughter, and I really believe that he has a bright future ahead of him.

I believe we are stronger together.

With your support, you will help more families like mine access this safe space too. This will make a meaningful difference, and I thank you so much in advance for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Wei Zheng
CAN Mom

More stories

CAN Blog Home >

Brayden: “I believe I can be something in this world.”

“I can tell my brother loves CAN, because…”

Breaking barriers: From CAN to Chilliwack Minor Hockey

 

 

For Remi’s 5th birthday this past November, he chose to ask his friends and family for donations to Canucks Autism Network in lieu of gifts.  

“In lieu of gifts, we would like to give back to a group that have given us so much. Remi has attended multiple activity programs and is currently learning how to ice skate which he loves going to. As a family, we have gotten to enjoy the Chilliwack Corn Maze which was a blast for us all. As Rio and Reimo get older, they too can attend programs with Remi.  Canucks Autism Network provides a safe, inclusive space for children to learn, interact and play together!” – Sarah, CAN Mom

If you would like to host a birthday fundraiser in support of Canucks Autism Network, we’d love to hear about it! Please contact our team at development@canucksautism.ca for ways to support.