Tag: youth

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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.

More CAN Stories

Breaking barriers: From CAN to Chilliwack Minor Hockey

CAN removes diagnosis barrier for youth & adults to access programs

Why I Celebrate Autism Acceptance

“I want to help other kids like me.”

April 28, 2021
by Maxwell

I’ve been accessing Canucks Autism Network (CAN) programs for almost a year now. I thought about joining a couple of years back, but hesitated. I was busy with high school and was in a very bad place mentally and emotionally. But I’ve been making progress on healing and being in a better place.

Being with CAN has really been a journey, since I felt like I was entirely on my own beforehand. I joined last August near the beginning of the pandemic.

I thought, “How do I find people that are just like me?”

I had looked elsewhere, but was often found ineligible for different services and programs because I was deemed ‘high functioning’.

Before CAN, I had been paired with workers who had made me feel afraid to show my true autistic self – that I could not understand social cues or that I experienced sensory overload. I felt like I had to stand up for myself and justify why I deserved to be respected as a human being at a young age.

I can make some eye contact and I can speak, so I was often made to feel like I should be able to move past those social and sensory challenges. It left me with way more emotional scars than I needed.  I felt helpless, scared and alone. Looking back on it, I would never wish it on anyone at all.

So when I joined CAN, I really had no idea what to expect. I joined their Youth & Adult Advisory Group (now called the Youth & Adult Leadership Committee), a group of individuals on the spectrum who provide feedback and insight on CAN programming. After the first session online, there was already a huge difference from what I’ve been used to.

Interested in joining the Youth & Adult Leadership Committee? Email mark.comfort@canucksautism.ca.

I shared about how certain actions we see in the community can stigmatize autistic individuals – how making us feel like certain behaviours are inherently bad can be very damaging. I didn’t get questioned or scrutinized for what I had to say. I actually felt as if my voice mattered, and that I was believed with no judgement or shame whatsoever.

“Autism acceptance means I’m part of a community that supports and listens to me.”


Maxwell is one of nine autistic voices who took part in our Autism Acceptance Month video with EY.
For every comment or share of the video until Apr 30, EY will donate $2. FB, IG, Tw, IN

Since the Advisory Group, I have joined a number of CAN programs, including the Skills Training Employment Program (STEP). The program is a 12-week paid opportunity for autistic youth and adults. I was part of their first cohort this past winter. It took time to build back the confidence that I had shattered. But by the end, I had learned much more than what my five years of high school had taught me – and in a way that I can understand.

Maxwell (bottom right) on “graduation day” with STEP in March 2021.

The program also allowed me to reunite with a childhood friend, both online in STEP’s virtual classroom and in-person after the program. As part of STEP, I’ll be working with CAN as an office assistant starting this May. I’m looking forward to it, including working alongside my future colleagues!

Interested in joining the Skills Training Employment Program (STEP)? Our next cohort begins May 10! Apply by May 5.

The best way to support the autistic community is to listen to us, amplify our voices and to be willing to work with the autistic community to bring change, justice and acceptance as a whole. 

As an autistic person in the community, both online and in person, it’s both saddening and infuriating seeing certain groups stigmatize us – and then around April, act like they have our backs or speak for us just for their own publicity gain. We’re not here to be alienated and looked down upon. We’re human just like everyone else. We just need support and acceptance for who we are – not a cure or to be “solved like a missing piece of the puzzle.”

Yes, I’m proud of the first steps our communities are making right now. It’s a good thing to shift to “acceptance”. But now we got to continue to strive forward for continued change.

I’m glad to speak out on this month with the best of my ability. I’d like to end with a quote which I stand by to this day: “Nothing about us, without us.”

Read more from individuals on the spectrum:

Natanya: “Autism acceptance means I have a job that I love”

Sebastian: Living a life I like

Sylvain: Changing my thoughts about autism

Jack speaks in front of entire school

Nate: What I want you to know about autism

RETURN TO BLOG HOME >>

In response to COVID-19, we introduced online programming so we could continue to provide support and opportunities for connection to our members. As the online space is a new medium for CAN program delivery, we sent our membership a brief poll to gain insight into preferences for virtual programming.

We received over 350 responses, representing approximately 379 members with autism from communities across British Columbia. Of those that responded:

  • 76 represented participants between 3-6 years
  • 160 represented participants between 7-12 years
  • 93 represented participants between 13-17 years
  • 50 represented participants 18 years or older

Program Timing

Respondents were asked about their preferred program frequency, duration of session, and days/times of the week.

  • Program Frequency: The majority of members are looking for virtual programs that run over consecutive weeks – between 4-6 weeks. This was consistent across all age groups.
  • Program Duration: The majority of members ages 3-12 are looking for class times that are either 30 or 45 minutes. Members  ages 13+ are looking for longer classes, either 45 or 60 minutes.
  • Program Timing: Responses were more varied across the different age groups. For ages 3-6, the preference is for mornings, specifically weekend mornings, and weekday evenings. For ages 7-12, responses were fairly consistent across days and times. For ages 13+, the preference is mostly for afternoons and evenings.

Program Activity

We asked respondents to identify which of the following program types they would be interested in: science activities, computer technology, social group, physical activity, arts/crafts, and other.

For participants 3-6 yrs: Interest was predominantly around physical activity, followed by arts/crafts.

For participants 7-12 yrs: Interest was quite spread out among the group, with physical activity, social groups, computer technology, and science activities all having similar levels of interest.

For participants 13+yrs: This group also had a wide range of interest, with the most popular activities being social groups, computer technology, and physical activity.

Additional Results

We received lots of positive feedback about our virtual programming and are thrilled to be able to reach remote communities with this new stream of programming . We also received feedback from participants who do not find that online programming works well for them for varied reasons.

How These Results Will Be Used

Thank you for your input! Our program team has reviewed the results and has already started incorporating feedback into the planning for the upcoming fall season.

We are very excited to add new online programs this fall, including a partnered baseball program (with an adapted equipment kit for each family that participates!), hockey clinics, and a new virtual meet-up club for preteens (ages 9-12)as well as for siblings!

View Fall 2020 Program Guide.

We value your feedback and will continue to ask for your suggestions on new program ideas throughout the year. If you haven’t yet had a chance, please take a few minutes to complete our in-person program poll which will help guide our gradual return to in-person programming around the province.

Provide Feedback on Returning to In-Person Programs.

Thank you again for your help in making CAN programs as successful as possible during this challenging time!

RETURN TO BLOG HOME

Zoë – Magee Secondary

CAN member since 2011

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

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

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

–Angela, Zoe’s mom

Jamie – Tamanawis Secondary

CAN member since 2014

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

–Jamie

Nicholas – Langley Fundamental Elementary

CAN member since 2016

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

-Nicole, Nicholas’ mom

Kush – Windsor Secondary

CAN member since 2010

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

-Kush

 

Brayden – UFV Dogwood Diploma

CAN member since 2014

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

-Lori, Brayden’s grandma

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

Jojo
Eric Hamber Secondary

CAN member since 2012

 

 

Connor
Riverside Secondary

CAN member since 2014

 

 

Ges
West Vancouver Secondary

CAN member since 2017

 

 

Kieran
Secondary School Certificate

CAN member since 2010

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

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

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

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

-Cynthia, Kieran’s mom

 

Davin, Johnston Heights Secondary

CAN member since 2012

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

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

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

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

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

June 4, 2020

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

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

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

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

Netflix Watch Parties

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

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

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

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

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

Zoom Meet Ups

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

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

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

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

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

Zoom Fitness

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

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

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

***

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

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


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

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

-Keara Farnan, CAN participant & volunteer

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

April 24, 2020

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

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

“Living a life I like”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I even shared a microphone with Sarah McLachlan herself!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more

Volunteer Spotlight: “Be friendly to one another”

Behind the scenes with the Reveal Gala choir

Sylvain Formo: Changing my thoughts about autism

Former hockey player gives back at CAN skate

Return to CAN Blog

April 20, 2020

 “No matter what, Nina shows up with her bubbly, positive personality. You can’t help but feel happy when she’s around!”
-Kayla Ungaro, CAN Regional Coordinator in Kelowna

This National Volunteer Week, the spotlight is on our incredible BC-wide team in green. What motivates them to give back? What are their favourite memories supporting our participants and families?

We have seen their impact every day in our programs and events ever since we began in 2008. We can’t wait to share their stories with you all week on social media!

Today, we are excited to celebrate Nina Gaspari in Kelowna.

Outside of her busy schedule working at a restaurant and studying biochemistry at UBCO, Nina has dedicated countless week nights and summer days to CAN. In two years, she has volunteered in Gymnastics, Active, Multisport, Weekly Youth & Adult Programs and Summer Day Camps.

Learn more about becoming a CAN volunteer!

“I remember checking in with Nina after her first couple of weeks volunteering,” recalled Kayla Ungaro, CAN Regional Coordinator in Kelowna. “She beamed with excitement that volunteering at CAN was the highlight of her week!”

“Some individuals have an innate ability to connect with participants and be that positive part of their week – that is definitely Nina.”

You’d think it was enough that Nina was finding time to support our program every week. But despite her busy schedule, she went above and beyond last summer. Joining up with fellow CAN volunteer and personal friend Morgan Painchaud, the duo helped organize a benefit concert at the OK Corral. Featuring local Okanagan talents like Ben Klick, Hillside Outlaws and Michael Daniels, Country For CAN raised over $2,500!

We are so lucky to have such enthusiastic volunteers who support our programs with such passion. What drives Nina to dedicate so much time for our participants and families?

“My intention is to demonstrate how to be friendly to one another. I want to help create an environment where CAN participants feel they can try something that they wouldn’t normally do.”

“So any time a child, youth or adult is able to interact with another one confidently, it puts such a big smile on my face.”

In just two years, Nina has volunteered in over 30 weekly sessions at CAN. Among her many hours supporting our participants, she shared with us one of her favourite memories from our Multisport program.

“During the basketball lesson, we were playing pass. The kids were originally paired up with staff and volunteers. But part way through the lesson, one of the kids asked another if he would play pass with him instead,” Nina recalled.

“Although this seems like a very small thing to do, it made me so happy that he had developed the social skills to reach out to a fellow peer.”

This past Winter, Nina took her skills for building social connections among participants to our Weekly Youth & Adult Program.

“I absolutely love playing games and chatting with them,” Nina said. “They are always challenging my perceptions on many things and I always find myself looking forward to the next one.”

The world needs more people like Nina. Lucky for CAN, we have hundreds who share her genuine passion for supporting kids, youth and adults with autism.

While our in-person programs are on hold for the time being, it goes without saying that our CAN volunteers are missing our participants and families immensely.

Learn how we are continuing to support our CAN community during COVID-19 at canucksautism.ca/homeactivities.

“I am so appreciative of what CAN is able to do for so many families,” said Nina. “It is so nice to see how these kids and youth look forward to coming to see us each week — just as much as we look forward to seeing them!”

Additional reading

Former hockey player gives back at CAN skate

Meet Siobhan: CAN participant & part-time employee

Kyle Boyle: Why I volunteer for CAN

Additional info

What kind of training to CAN staff and volunteers receive?

What is each staff and volunteer’s role in CAN programs?

Become a CAN volunteer!

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April 10, 2020

Keara is a CAN participant, volunteer & regular contributor on our blog! Last month, she shared her initial experience coping with change during COVID-19. Today, she shares one of her favourite recipes to whip up at home!

I’ve been cooking and baking for most of my life. It’s a really good way to relax and de-stress. I’m able to utilize certain ingredients and create delicious dishes that my family and friends love. A couple of my favourites are ginger snap cookies and sausage and chicken with fire roasted tomatoes, onion, and garlic seasoning.

I grew up cooking and baking with my parents and love helping out in the kitchen at home. I’ve always been fascinated with how certain foods are made. I’ve tried to make bread in the past, but it didn’t work out for me. One of my goals is to make pasta from scratch, because I love Italian food and a friend told me that she once enjoyed making it.

Keara (seventh from the left) assisting with meal prep at Rogers Arena as part of the CAN Explore Volunteering program.

I want to share some recipes with the CAN community as I would like to inspire other people to cook. Food is a big passion of mine. Making up my own recipes with the ingredients in my home is fun and educational. I become a better chef with each dish I make.

The CAN program and office staff have enjoyed my baking in the past, so I’m sure others involved with CAN would enjoy learning this home cooked dish – fit for three to four people.

Easy Tomato Dish with Sausage and Chicken

Serves 3 to 4

Fast and simple dish with tomato, sausage, chicken, vegetables, and herbs ideal for a family dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 2 mild Italian sausages cut into 1 inch pieces
  • 2-3 chicken breasts (trim off fat before placing in dish)
  • ½ onion (I use purple onion because it’s milder)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (enough to cover the bottom of the dish)
  • 1 can of fire roasted tomatoes
  • 1 can of crushed tomatoes with herbs
  • ½ tsp of salt
  • ½ ground pepper
  • 2 garlic cloves / or garlic plus seasoning (available at Costco)
  • 1 bell pepper (any colour)
  • Optional: small package of potatoes

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375 F before you start prepping your dish.
  2. Carefully cut up onions followed by garlic and the bell pepper, then place them in a deep dish (preferably a casserole dish) with 2 tbsp olive oil.
  3. Add chicken and sausage.
  4. Gently add the spices and salt & pepper followed by the 2 cans of tomatoes (add a small amount cut once in half if desired).
  5. Cook dish up to 1 hour or more depending on the type of oven you have. Keep lip on or cover with aluminum foil.
  6. Take the dish out after one hour to check the meat. If it’s not cooked through, give it another 10-15 minutes.
Once completed, Keara served her tomato, chicken and sausage with a scoop of rice!

CAN and Keara would love to hear what recipes you’re enjoying making at home while self-isolating! Visit our Facebook or Instagram post and share your favourite dishes in the comments.

Additional Reading

Keara Farnan: My experience coping during COVID-19

CAN youth & adults learn to cook with Coast Mental Health [Facebook]

Learn more about CAN Youth & Adult programming

CAN youth & adult members take the lead

Return to the CAN Blog

 

April 7, 2020

According to a recent Canadian Survey on Disability, approximately 86% adults with autism are unemployed nation-wide. In order to address this disparity, we have made inclusive hiring a priority within our own organization. As a result, we have benefited from the abilities of 18 staff with autism and 34 volunteers with autism in the past year. But we recognize the need to expand this impact beyond our walls.

That’s why Canucks Autism Network (CAN) has partnered with Ready, Willing and Able (RWA), an inclusive hiring initiative funded by the Government of Canada.

The goal of the RWA program is to engage, educate and support employers to hire individuals with autism or intellectual disabilities. We joined RWA as a program partner alongside Inclusion BC – with CAN delivering the program for individuals with autism and Inclusion BC supporting those with intellectual disabilities.

In order to support this new initiative, we hired two new staff to our Employment Team – Employment Engagement Specialist Ross MacMillan and Navigator of Youth and Adult Services Sarah Armstrong. Together with Manager of Employment Initiatives Robbie Hsieh overseeing the program, the trio has been busy laying the groundwork for CAN’s delivery of the initiative.

Given the current health situation with COVID-19, we recognize that the employment landscape has rapidly changed.

Working remotely from home, Robbie, Ross and Sarah remain committed to connecting with employers, job seekers and agency partners during this time. As a team, we are actively exploring new ways to champion inclusive hiring in the current employment climate.

CAN’s RWA team: Sarah Amstrong, Robbie Hsieh & Ross MacMillan

Employer Engagement

Starting this past September, Ross MacMillan has engaged with numerous employers to build their interest and competency to hire individuals with autism. This work includes connecting employers with qualified candidates, providing disability awareness training and directing them to on-the-job supports.

As a result, CAN has already received inclusive hiring commitments from organizations like Aquilini Investment Group, SAP, Great Little Box Company and Meridian Farm Market.

If you are an employer or know of an employer that would like to discuss inclusive hiring, please contact Employment Engagement Specialist Ross MacMillan at ross.macmillan@canucksautism.ca.

We would especially love to hear from those who many have remote employment opportunities.

Supporting Job Seekers with Autism

Beginning this past December, Sarah Armstrong was promoted from her position as Youth and Adult Program Coordinator to Navigator of Youth and Adult Services – shifting her focus from CAN programs to supporting job seekers with autism through RWA.

Through community outreach, Sarah connects autistic youth and adults with supports and services that can improve their transitions to employment, independent living and community access. Since January, Sarah has engaged in over 30 outreach activities and has already connected 14 youth and adults to supports in their community.

During this time of uncertainty, Sarah is available to connect with job seekers to best prepare them for employment opportunities once the health situation in our community improves.

Are you looking for employment in the Metro Vancouver area? Do you identify as being on the autism spectrum? Connect with our Navigator of Youth and Adult Services, Sarah Armstrong, by filling out an Intake Form or at sarah.armstrong@canucksautism.ca.

Moving Forward


Our vision is for every individual with autism to be understood, accepted and supported in all community spaces. This includes our workplaces.

By collaborating with job seekers, businesses, employment service providers, other autism organizations, educational institutions and families, we firmly believe that we can build that future together.

For more information, please visit canucksautism.ca/rwa.

Additional Reading

Learn more about what #WeBelieve
During these uncertain times, the world seems to be changing on a daily basis. So during Autism Acceptance Month, we will be focusing on one of the things that will not change. Our values.

Changing my thoughts about autism
Sylvain is a CAN participant, volunteer and now — staff member. Read the speech he gave at the Canucks Alumni Charity Golf Tournament.

CAN youth and adult members take the lead
We asked our participants what programs they wanted to see CAN deliver. This is what they said.

Meet Siobhan: CAN participant & part-time employee
Siobhan has benefited from CAN programs for years. Now CAN is benefiting from her skills in the office.

Return to the CAN Blog

Mar 27, 2020

My name is Keara Farnan and I wanted to share my experience during the coronavirus pandemic.

I first heard about the coronavirus at the end of 2019, but never thought it would become a serious health crisis. I have become very bored with little to do at home. I’m still managing to stay in contact with my friends and my parents who live in Oliver.

But I feel very disengaged and isolated from society.

I go for walks after breakfast to get groceries and I notice people having to wait in line in to enter. When I walk through the grocery store, I notice most of the stock is missing. And there are signs indicating there is a limit to how many cans of soup customers are allowed to purchase.

Read Keara’s first guest blog with CAN, My life with autism.

I look around me and I see multiple people wearing face masks and gloves and trying to distance themselves from each other. I feel a sense of urgency; I’m not sure if I will be able to get the food I need to survive the next few weeks of this pandemic. The suspense makes me even more nervous.

As I approach the checkout, I notice large pieces of pink tape on the ground and one of the staff tells me to keep my distance. But, I’m not sure what they mean exactly because they didn’t tell me how many metres I need to keep from another customer. I feel panicked as I question if going to the grocery store was even a good idea to begin with.

I do not cope well with sudden changes and I become very grumpy if I’m on my own for long periods of time. My parents have always encouraged me to be more social and interact with my peers. Although, now is certainly not the time to be socially gathering with other people.

I’m stuck between wanting to be social and wanting to remain in self-isolation.

My work is closed, so I won’t be leaving home, except maybe to go to the grocery store or grab a coffee at a café nearby. I feel trapped inside the walls of my apartment as I stare out the window across and look at the other apartment building. It’s like the walls are closing in on me and I don’t like that feeling at all.

I wonder if my neighbours are experiencing the same kind of stress I am, and if other people would understand if I were to explain how I feel about the COVID-19 pandemic. No one really explained to me how serious the coronavirus is. I had to do my own research. And watching the news on TV or reading online articles about COVID-19 is rather disturbing.

I don’t want to think about the coronavirus pandemic anymore. I don’t want to have to stay inside my apartment for what feels like a century.

Living independently on the North Shore, I have had to adapt to manage certain tasks alone, like grocery shopping, budgeting, and doing laundry. I usually go to the gym and work out when I am bored. But unfortunately I do not have that option at the moment.

I’ve been going for walks around the track at Fen Burdett Stadium, which is very close to Carson Graham Secondary.

Physical activity is important to me because it helps me de-stress and also stay in shape.

When I am at home, I like to watch TV, write, bake, and hang out with my cat Maggie. Pets are a great companion for individuals on the spectrum because they provide support and are always there for you when you need a friend.

As a young woman on the autism spectrum, I’m struggling to understand the importance of self-isolation and the effects that the coronavirus may have on those with a disability.

I highly encourage autistic individuals to research COVID-19 online or with their parents to find out more information.

From CAN: ACT-Autism Community Training has a great list of resources for youth & adults with autism to increase their understanding of COVID-19. View here.

Another thing that has really helped me stay calm is watching Netflix and cooking. While it can be hard, you should limit your in-person interactions.

If a friend asks to meet with you in person, you can suggest connecting over the phone or meeting through an online platform instead.

As the rate of coronavirus cases in BC increases, I am becoming even more concerned about the potential of a full lockdown, and the impact it may have on my involvement in Canucks Autism Network (CAN) programs.

Keara in our rock climbing program last year. Read her program testimonial Climbing new heights!

I first joined CAN in 2011 and it has always been a safe place for me to go to where I feel like I belong and fit in. I am very fortunate to be involved with CAN and look forward to future events and programs once the coronavirus passes.

They provide, not only myself, but thousands of other individuals with autism the opportunity to participate in safe, fun, and enjoyable programs — free of judgement or criticism.

I have been staying up-to-date on news from CAN by regularly checking my inbox and their social media platforms, (i.e. Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter), or by reading the monthly CAN newsletter.

I am keeping my fingers crossed that the spread of COVID-19 decreases and CAN programs and events are able to resume without further disruption or health precautions.

-Keara Farnan

How CAN is here to help.

We are closely aware of the need for our youth and adult participants, like Keara, to stay connected while respecting the obligations of social distancing.

Our program team is busily working on new ways for our youth and adult participants to stay in touch with CAN and each other!

Stay tuned in the coming weeks as we announce new initiatives, like virtual meetings, video activities to follow along with at home, a youth and adult newsletter and more. We are excited to stay connected!

Questions? Email CAN’s Navigator of Youth and Adult Services Sarah Armstrong at sarah.armstrong@canucksautism.ca.

Additional resources

Stay up-to-date on CAN program and event announcements at canucksautism.ca/health, our member newsletter and social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIN).

For COVID-19 updates and recommendations from provincial health authorities, please visit: bccdc.ca.

We would also like to remind everyone to take care of their mental health. If you are in a crisis, please reach out to Crisis Services Canada – 1-833-456-4566. For additional resources, please visit: foundrybc.ca

Finally, ACT-Autism Community Training has a great list of resources for youth & adults with autism to increase their understanding of COVID-19. View here.

Additional reading

Keara Farnan: My life with autism”
Keara Farnan: Climbing new heights with CAN
Nate Keller: What I want you to know about autism

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