Participate in a National Study Examining Vocational Services for Adults with Autism
The University of Calgary is conducting a national study looking at vocational opportunities, or the lack of opportunities, for adults with autism across Canada. They are seeking participants in B.C. including:
- Adults with autism, who may or may not be employed currently
- Parents/family members of adults with autism
- Employers
- Service providers / job coaches / job placement services
Rest in Peace, Richard Benbaruj
We are very sad to share with you the news that the search to find Richard Benbaruj has ended – his body has been found.
We appreciate all the efforts that have been made by community members across BC and especially in Vancouver to look for Richard.
Richard had been a member of ACT’s Advisory Council since our formation and was well known as an event volunteer. Those of us who have known Richard for many years first as a member of the Autism Society of B.C. and more recently with ACT will miss him greatly for his kindness and generosity of spirit.
We extend our condolences to his family.
Funeral Service
The funeral for Richard Benbaruj was will be held Wednesday, June 6 in Surrey at the Schara Tzedek Surrey Cemetery at 16656 – 60th Avenue.
Thank you to those who attended his memorial.
B.C. Artist J.A. Tan wins U.N. Competition with “Victory”
The United Nations, in its search for inspiring artists with autism from around the world, has chosen a work by J.A. Tan, a member of the B.C. autism community and winner of ACT’s 2011 art competition. A graduate of Emily Carr University of Art and Design, J.A. Tan’s work will be featured in a series of stamps that the U.N. Postal Administration (UNPA) will issue on 2 April 2012, in recognition of World Autism Day. The stamps, and the artists who designed them, will together raise awareness about this important global cause. Visit ACT’s office to see two of J.A.’s works.
See the full press release from the U.N.
“One young boy negotiating the world in a way he knows. One young boy listening to a different tune as he makes sense of the world around.Not an easy task as he perceives the world differently from others. He is met with confused looks, angry looks, disturbed looks, happy looks, questioning looks… so many questions but no one answer. Yet this young boy continues on his journey never giving up…until… Supported by his immediate family – all five of them always a strong presence in his life – friends, and professionals this young boy today has claimed victory over the many challenges of his life. Today, with happy faces around him he shows the world the “victory” of an artist with autism achieved with patience, discipline, perseverance, love, and a positive attitude.”
-J.A. Tan 2011
Cheryl & Leslie’s Triumph Tiger 800 XC Adventure to Alaska
ACT is very pleased at the launch of this ‘mobile’ autism awareness campaign, “Cheryl & Leslie’s Triumph Tiger 800 XC Adventure to Alaska”. Cheryl and Leslie are two Vancouver area women with a passion for dual sport motorcycle riding. They will be heading out on an exciting journey to Alaska raising awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder and the resources that ACT has to offer. They will also be encouraging donations to ACT.
Alternatively, you can follow along with their adventure through B.C., the Yukon, and Alaska and all the way North to Prudhoe Bay by checking out their Blog.
Cheryl & Leslie’s Adventure to Alaska kicks off at 9:00 am, June 29, 2011 at Western Power Sports in Langley. Join ACT in giving them a warm send off and to thank them for their generous spirit and dedication in raising awareness of ASD. We have special t-shirts available for the first ten arrivals at the venue!
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