We are honoured to have been selected, alongside the Sinneave Family Foundation (Sinneave) through an open and competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) process to help lead the creation of a National Autism Network (NAN) — an initiative that will help inform the implementation of Canada’s Autism Strategy.
After over a decade of working hard to bring an Autism Strategy to Canada, today’s announcement from the federal government about moving forward is a step in the right direction for the autism community. It’s been a long road, and while we still have a lot of work ahead of us, this is a milestone worth celebrating.
Our Board Co-Vice Chair, Maddy Dever, is thrilled that Autistic Canadians will be involved from the start.
As an Autistic adult and parent of Autistics, I’m incredibly excited to be involved in the launch of this important initiative. Guided by Autistics and caregivers, this network will ensure that lived and living experience is at the heart of implementing Canada’s Autism Strategy. Together, we’re building a future where Autistics across the lifespan can truly thrive.
The Alliance and Sinneave will work closely with government and community to lead the charge in getting the Network, which will be a new non-profit entity, up-and-running. The focus will be on centering the experiences of Autistic people living in Canada and their families in the implementation of Canada’s National Autism Strategy, while also bringing together experts and community organizations from across the country to strengthen the network’s impact.
The Alliance team, through the National Centre for Autism Collaboration, will be responsible for navigating collaborative efforts with governments and system leaders to design and implement actions that will address the five priority areas outlined in Canada’s Autism Strategy (You can learn more about these five priority areas in our podcast series!).
From the beginning, the autism community has called for a strategy that delivers tangible change. The creation of the National Autism Network is an important step toward achieving that change. Our focus will be on working with governments and partners to bring forward actionable solutions, making sure that all aspects of the Autism Strategy are fully implemented
Sinneave, a leader in collaboration, will focus on amplifying the experiences and perspectives of the autism community by creating inclusive forums for ongoing and meaningful engagement – and most importantly, making sure those with lived and living experience are acknowledged, and actively included in shaping policy and program development.
Meaningfully engaging the autism community in an ongoing exchange of ideas is critical to ensuring that policies and programs reflect the real needs of individuals and families. By creating forums for engagement, we aim to ensure the community plays an active role in shaping its future.
While it’s important to acknowledge this important step forward – it’s equally important to recognize that across the country, Autistic Canadians and their families are facing substantial challenges throughout the lifespan – including long waitlists for diagnostic assessments, exclusionary policies within the public education system, and high unemployment rates.
The challenges facing Autistic people and their families are undeniable and pressing. This new network will be a vital platform for developing and spreading effective solutions across Canada, ensuring that all Autistic people and their families receive the support they need to thrive.
Autism Alliance of Canada and the Sinneave Family Foundation are committed to supporting the Network in bringing the goals of Canada’s National Autism Strategy into reality. The Network will serve as a hub for engagement, collaboration, advocacy, and action on issues impacting the autism community.
Autistic people, their family members, friends, and neighbours should not have to face their challenges alone. They deserve the support and advocacy of the entire nation. By providing necessary resources and opportunities, we create a more inclusive Canada, where everyone can thrive. This collective effort strengthens communities and builds a Canada that values dignity and equity for all.
For more information about the National Autism Network and to learn how you can get involved, visit www.nan-rna.ca
Financial Contribution from the Public Health Agency of Canada.