Frequently Asked Questions
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder, more generally referred to as ‘autism.’ Autism is diagnosed based on difficulties with social communication and behaviour, but there is significant variability among individuals who share the diagnosis. Autism occurs in all racial, ethnic and social groups, but is almost five times more likely to occur in boys than girls.
The U.S. Centre for Disease Control (CDC) estimates 1 in 68 children have autism. This marks a 23% increase since 2009, and a 78% increase since 2007. (CDC, 2012)
There are over 11,000 children and youth in British Columbia diagnosed with autism. (Ministry of Children and Family Development, 2011)
Canucks Autism Network 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.
In short, we focus on three areas: program delivery, training and awareness.
The Canucks Autism Network is a registered charity under the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Our registered charity number is: 82247 2957 RR0001.
The Canucks Autism Network was founded by Paolo and Clara Aquilini, Co-owners of the Vancouver Canucks. In addition, CAN receives generous funding from the Canucks for Kids Fund and support from the Vancouver Canucks organization at fundraising and awareness events throughout the year.
Jacob Markstrom, Vancouver Canucks goalie, is the current Ambassador for the Canucks Autism Network.
- An individual in the immediate family (i.e. a son or daughter, or the individual who is registering) must be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
- Individuals and families wishing to become members and access programs and member benefits must live in British Columbia, Canada.
- Individuals across the autism spectrum are welcome to participate, regardless of the level of support they require.
Membership includes an annual fee of $25 for each registered participant with autism.
This fee may be paid in any of the following ways:
- Through the autism funding provided by the Ministry of Children and Family Development
- Credit card through the online CAN Membership account,
- By cheque mailed to the CAN Office (101-2020 Yukon St, Vancouver, BC, V5Y 3N8)
- With cash at the CAN Office (101-202 Yukon St, Vancouver, BC, V5Y 3N8).
When we enter new communities, we consider:
- The number of families living with autism in the area
- Potential support from community partners (recreation centres who are interested in hosting the program, organizations that can partner with us to deliver the program etc.)
- Local donor support
- Availability of staff/volunteers
- Other similar programs that are already being offered in the region
To see a full listing of programs, locations and age groups for the current season, please visit our Programs page.
The majority of our programs are included in the annual $25 membership fee, however, some of our more resource-intensive programs come with a highly subsidized fee to ensure their long-term financial sustainability.
In addition to traditional payment options, we accept payment through Autism Funding provided by the government and sporting grants, such as JumpStart and KidsSport.
At Canucks Autism Network, we value accessibility and strive to eliminate financial barriers to program participation. If a program fee is a barrier for your family, we encourage you to submit a request for fee reduction or a waiver through our Fee Assistance Program. Please e-mail please email [email protected] for more information.
The Canucks Autism Network (CAN) is governed by a democratically elected Board of Directors.
The Canucks Autism Network’s financials are audited yearly. View our Financial Statements.
Interested in joining our fun and dynamic team? Learn about our current employment opportunities.
We are always looking for dedicated and passionate individuals who are looking to give back. Our volunteers collaborate with our trained and qualified staff to provide individualized and adapted support to children, teens and young adults with autism. Learn more about volunteering with the Canucks Autism Network.