Strategic Partnership Announcement: The Canadian Camps Association & Canucks Autism Network
For Immediate Release:
Canadian Camps Association and Canucks Autism Network Partner on National Initiative to Improve Camp Accessibility for Neurodivergent Campers
Five-year project, funded by the Azrieli Foundation, will support camps across Canada in creating more inclusive experiences for neurodivergent children and youth
VANCOUVER, BC – The Canadian Camps Association (CCA) and Canucks Autism Network (CAN) are proud to announce a new five-year partnership aimed at improving accessibility and inclusion for neurodivergent campers at summer camps across Canada.
Funded by the Azrieli Foundation, the project will bring together camp professionals and CAN training experts to develop practical resources that help camps foster more inclusive experiences for neurodivergent children and youth.
Through a collaborative development process, the project will create a comprehensive suite of accessibility resources, including:
An online training module for camp staff and leaders
An in-person workshop designed for delivery during staff training week
Camp support kits featuring visual resources and other tools that promote accessible and inclusive camp environments
Using a Train-the-Trainer model, the initiative will equip camp leaders with the knowledge and resources needed to deliver training within their own organizations, helping expand the project's reach and impact across the country.
“The CCA is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive camp community across Canada. This initiative will give camp leaders actionable strategies to strengthen accessibility, ensuring our programs better support neurodivergent youth and create a sense of belonging for every participant. We look forward to member camps’ participation.”
Over the next several summers, a series of pilot training sessions will be conducted to test and refine the resources. The first pilot is scheduled to take place in British Columbia in January 2027.
The project reflects a shared commitment between CCA and CAN to strengthen inclusion across the camping sector and ensure camp staff have access to universal strategies and resources that support a wide range of needs.
“Summer camps play a vital role in helping children and youth build confidence, develop friendships, and experience a sense of belonging. We are excited to partner with the Canadian Camps Association on this important initiative to ensure that more neurodivergent campers can fully participate in the camp experience. By providing practical tools, training, and ongoing support to camp professionals, we can help create environments where every camper feels welcomed, included, and supported.”
Seeking Passionate Inclusion Camp Professionals
Camp professionals who are passionate about inclusion are invited to share their experience and help inform this important work by completing a short survey (see below).
As a thank you for their time, everyone who completes the survey by November 29th will be entered into a draw to win a $25 Tim Hortons gift card.
About the Canadian Camps Association
The Canadian Camps Association (CCA) is a national, nonprofit federation of provincial camping associations dedicated to strengthening the camp sector across Canada. By bringing together provincial associations, industry leaders, and like-minded organizations, CCA works to elevate and advocate for the value of camp and its lasting impact on children, youth, and communities. Through national advocacy, research, partnerships, and knowledge sharing, CCA supports its members in addressing shared challenges and building a thriving, inclusive camp sector. Its work champions the role of camp in fostering human connection, developing leaders, and creating opportunities for growth and belonging. Together with its provincial partners, CCA is helping build a future where more people can experience the benefits of camp.
About Canucks Autism Network
Since 2008, Canucks Autism Network (CAN) has been dedicated to creating a future where every Autistic individual is understood, accepted, and supported in all community spaces. Today, CAN positively impacts over 10,000 Autistic children, youth, adults, and their families across British Columbia through a wide range of sports, recreation, mental health, life skills, and employment opportunities. Beyond direct programs, CAN works to build more inclusive communities by providing autism training and accessibility consultation to tens of thousands of professionals annually, including first responders, mental health practitioners, educators, sport and recreation leaders, customer service staff, travel industry professionals, and other community partners. Through its province-wide efforts, CAN is helping create communities where individuals on the autism spectrum can thrive.