Why does autism
acceptance matter?
Autism Acceptance is important for several reasons. It represents a shift in perspective from focusing on "awareness" to embracing and understanding the diversity of individuals on the autism spectrum. Acceptance challenges stereotypes, reduces stigma, and empowers individuals to express themselves confidently. Let's celebrate neurodiversity and work towards a society that appreciates everyone's uniqueness this World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd.
What are some ways I can celebrate this year?
Donate
Make an impact this by donating to Autism Canada to help support those on the autism spectrum, their families, and caregivers through our vital services and programs
Access our toolkits for Businesses and Schools
Our toolkits have a collection of banners, social media posts, and more.
Spread the word
We invite you to #bethechange and join the conversation! Send us
your posts and videos, photos and comments
about what Autism Acceptance means to you at media@autismcanada.org
Join an Existing Campaign
Sign up for one of our existing campaigns!
Kids Play for Autism
In honour of this World Autism Acceptance Day (April 2nd), we’re inviting kids across Canada to make a difference during the month of April—by doing what they love! Inspired by Laura, a young advocate who turned her passion for the monkey bars into a powerful fundraiser, Kids Play for Autism Acceptance is a fun and meaningful way for children to support the autism community while playing their favorite sports.
How It Works
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Register – Sign up on Zeffy to take part. Registration is free!
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Play – Choose any sport your child loves—whether it’s soccer, basketball, hockey, swimming, tennis, or even backyard games. The goal is simply to get moving and have fun!
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Share – Capture the moment! Send in photos or videos of your child in action to help spread awareness and inspire others to participate by submitting them to media@autismcanada.org or tagging us on social media at @autismcanada
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Fundraise – Encourage family and friends to donate in support of Autism Canada’s Family Support Program, which provides essential resources to families and individuals across the country.
Laura’s Story — The Inspiration Behind Kids Play
Last year, Laura (on the image to the right) set a goal: to raise awareness and funds for autism acceptance by doing something she loved—mastering the monkey bars. Her original fundraising goal was $250, but with her dedication and the support of her community, she raised an incredible $1,385!
Laura’s mom shared:
"Laura is even more excited about fundraising. She had so much fun and was driven to keep going. When we first thought about helping fundraise, we considered either myself or my husband doing it. But something inside me said that an autistic person advocating for the cause would be even more impactful. It also sends the message that early intervention can be life-changing and that autistic individuals can contribute to the community—including by advocating for others on the spectrum. When I asked Laura how she felt about continuing to help autistic children, she gave a BIG yes!"
Inspired by Laura’s enthusiasm, we’re inviting kids everywhere to choose an activity they love, play for a cause, and raise funds for Autism Canada’s Family Support Program—a vital resource for families across the country.
Making Waves for Autism
Last year, Making Waves for Autism made a splash—raising over $45,000 thanks to the incredible generosity of supporters like you. This success led to the early launch of Autism Canada’s Community Assistance Program in October 2024, months ahead of schedule. Already, this program is making a difference by helping autistic individuals and their families afford essential services not typically covered by provincial health plans.
But we’re just getting started. In 2025, we’re making even bigger waves—and with your support, we can reach even more families in need. Let’s build on this momentum and create an even greater impact together.
Honoring Tyler’s Vision
Making Waves for Autism was founded in memory of Tyler, our founder’s late cousin, who passed away in August 2023. Tyler was passionate about raising awareness and funds for autism, inspired by his young son on the spectrum. Before his passing, he had been planning a charity boxing event in support of Autism Canada.
Though his event never came to be, Making Waves for Autism carries forward his vision in a new way. Instead of stepping into the ring, we take to the water—paddling together for a shared purpose. United by this cause, we honor Tyler’s legacy and continue his mission to make a difference.
Expanding Coast to Coast
In 2025, Making Waves for Autism is expanding into a national event! Individuals and teams across Canada can now participate by choosing their own paddling challenges to raise awareness and funds for autism support. With this expansion, we aim to create a lasting impact and improve outcomes for autistic individuals across the country.
Together, we can make waves of hope, inclusion, and support for families who need it most.
Join the movement, donate, and help us make 2025 our biggest year yet!
Start Your Own Campaign
Whether you choose to fundraise or take on a fun challenge, you can help raise vital funds to support individuals, families and caregivers.
How It Works
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Register – Sign up to take part in the fundraising campaign. It’s free and easy to get started!
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Fundraise – You can choose to fundraise by simply asking your friends and family to donate to Autism Canada. Every contribution supports essential programs that help neurodivergent individuals and their families. Make your fundraising experience as fun as you want!
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Choose an Activity (Optional) – Want to add a personal touch? You can take on any activity you enjoy to raise awareness and funds. Here are some fun ideas:
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Go for a walk, jog, or run – set a distance goal that works for you!
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Try a workout challenge – push-ups, squats, or a fitness class!
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Host a virtual event – trivia night, game night, or a casual hangout.
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Take on a creative challenge – bake, craft, or paint for donations.
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Learn a new skill – take a dance class, try a new sport, or do something adventurous. The possibilities are endless, and you don’t have to be an athlete to make a big impact! Have fun with it, and get creative.
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Share – Let your network know why you’re participating by sharing your fundraising page on social media, via email, or simply by word of mouth. You can inspire others to join the movement and contribute to the cause!
Tag us on social media @autismcanada or send photos and videos to media@autismcanada.org to be featured on our social media. We’d love to showcase your story and share your journey with our community!
Digital Toolkits for Schools & Businesses
In these toolkits for businesses and schools for World Autism Acceptance Day, you will find a collection of resources, materials, and guidelines to help you effectively communicate and raise acceptance about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in your classroom or organization on this specific day.