4 | Acquisition International, Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025 Autism Support Charity of the Year 2025 – Canada & Award for International Autism Advocacy & Service 2025 “We work for the community of today and tomorrow. ” Autism Canada was founded in 1976 and stands as a national organisation advocating for autistic individuals across the country, alongside providing resources to those seeking guidance and information. For over four decades, the organisation has been unwavering in its commitment to enhancing the quality of life and wellbeing of those on the autism spectrum, through a combination of robust education, targeted advocacy, and steadfast support. “With each activity we undertake,” said Jamie, “we embody our mission: Autism Canada believes that every autistic person is a valuable part of society and deserves to be treated with dignity that respects their ability to involve themselves in social and civic life. We work towards this goal through our mission to advocate alongside and support individuals on the autism spectrum living in Canada, along with their families and caregivers.” To achieve its mission, Autism Canada takes a multifaceted approach to its operations – participating in discussions surrounding national, provincial, and local policy change; educating Canadians and the wider world on autism; and working to create a safe and inclusive environment through its robust catalogue of training programmes. The organisation goes a step further in its endeavours, aiding organisations in assessing their environments for inclusivity and accessibility compliance by performing site audits and providing feedback to improve the experiences of all neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, ADHD, dementia, and many more. Alongside this, Autism Canada has also launched a Community Assistance Program, or CAP. Early intervention is vital, and the organisation is working hard to provide access that is otherwise unavailable. The programme will enable Autism Canada to provide subsidies to individuals impacted by long wait lists or financial limitations and currently unable to access crucial services or receive an official diagnosis. Wait times vary across each province, but Autism Canada’s ultimate aim is to relieve the strain Across Canada, individuals on the autism spectrum, along with their families and caregivers, face unique challenges in accessing support, education, and advocacy. Autism Canada stands at the forefront of addressing these needs, working tirelessly to build a more inclusive society through resources, awareness, and direct assistance. With a commitment to empowering autistic individuals and fostering understanding, the organisation plays a vital role in reshaping the national conversation on autism. We caught up with Jamie McCleary below, Executive Director of Autism Canada, as the organisation is named in the Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025.
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