Community Partners: A Q&A with Ryan Yao of Canucks Autism Network

“Now in its eighteenth year, CAN is recognized as a provincial leader in the field of adapted programming for children, youth, and adults on the autism spectrum.”

We’re pleased to spotlight Canucks Autism Network (CAN) for our latest Community Partners Q&A. We interviewed Ryan Yao, Director of Development, about the organization’s impact across B.C., the importance of community support, and what’s ahead for CAN.

In two to three sentences, tell us a bit about your organization.

Canucks Autism Network (CAN) ’s vision is for every individual on the autism spectrum to be understood, accepted, and supported in all community spaces.

Now in its eighteenth year, CAN is recognized as a provincial leader in the field of adapted programming for children, youth, and adults on the autism spectrum. CAN programs for children focus on sports and recreation, whereas core focus areas for youth and adults include mental health and wellness, recreation, and employment. Beyond delivering upwards of 650 programs annually, CAN fulfills its vision by providing autism training and accessibility consultation to a range of sectors and communities across BC.

Tell us why support from organizations such as OpenRoad Foundation is important for charities and non-profits?

CAN depends on the generous support of the community in order to further its vision and reach. With 1 in 25 individuals diagnosed with autism in British Columbia, CAN sees over 200 people each month reaching out to sign up for our services. We simply can’t keep up with the demand for our programming. Support from organizations like OpenRoad Foundation provides financial relief to be able to accommodate more families that might otherwise be turned away due to capacity.

How did our grant help Canucks Autism Network?

The funding from OpenRoad Foundation allowed CAN to deliver more program opportunities for our family events. Family Experiences provides opportunities to enjoy a fun activity in a non-judgmental environment, while connecting with other families. The OpenRoad Foundation got to be part of our Winter Wonderland Family Skate at The Shipyards in North Vancouver. This Family Experience welcomed over 300 participants to come and skate outside at the festive rink at The Shipyards in a safe and supportive environment. This was just one of the many Family Experiences CAN delivers each year. Last year 13,841 Family Experiences attendees were supported through the generosity of donors like the OpenRoad Foundation!

What's coming up for Canucks Autism Network (or, what's new)?

CAN is excited to announce the launch of the CAN Learning Hub! For years, we have provided training and accessibility consultation to tens of thousands of first responders, mental health providers, customer service staff & so much more. We believe that every community should take action to include and support Autistic Individuals. The CAN Learning Hub makes online courses available for anyone, anytime, anywhere! We hope that with this new tool, the community aligns with us in helping shape a more inclusive community where individuals on the autism spectrum can thrive.

What's your favourite part of working with Canucks Autism Network?

My favourite part of working with Canucks Autism Network has got to be the impact. Hearing over and over from the community at large how CAN has played a significant role in improving the lives of those close to them never ceases to amaze me. We have a small but mighty team at CAN. The immense impact of changing thousands and thousands of lives speaks to the dedication, passion, and importance of the work CAN does.

To learn more about Canucks Autism network, please visit canucksautism.ca.