2018 British Columbia Excellence in Autism Awards Shortlist Announced.

By Becs Brocken
  • News /
  • April 5th, 2018

  • The 2018 shortlist for the British Columbia Excellence in Autism Awards sponsored by Applewood Auto Group, AllWest Insurance and Adecco has been announced with 16 nominees including volunteers, professionals, businesses and self-advocates from across the province.

    Launched in 2018, by AutismBC the awards recognize individuals and organizations across the province whose work positively influences the lives of individuals affected by autism. Over 100 nominations were received this year, including two in memory of Chris Arnold and Katherine McLeod, professionals who served the autism communities of Terrace and Nanaimo respectively.

    “In the short time that I have been connected to the autism community I have witnessed and benefited from incredible contributions made by those working to improve the lives of those affected by ASD in BC.  I am thrilled that we now have a forum to recognize the fabulous work that is being done across the province and share success stories” said Andrew Pinfold, Director of Operations, AutismBC.

    Latest reports from MCFD indicate that in British Columbia autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects 1 in every 58 families.  ASD refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as by unique strengths and differences. It is estimated approx. 56,000 people are living with an ASD diagnosis in BC.

    Laurie Guerra, President of AutismBC said “Autism Awareness Month is the perfect time to celebrate and recognize those who are going above and beyond to support families and individuals impacted by autism.  We are grateful to everyone who submitted nominations, and to representatives from the Pacific Autism Family Network, Canucks Autism Network, ABLE Clinic and Vancity for joining our judging panel in the inaugural year.”

    The British Columbia Excellence in Autism Awards will be held at the Goodlife Fitness Family Autism Hub on Friday, April 20, 2018.

    Shortlisted nominees include;

    Volunteer of the Year presented by Applewood Auto Group
    Abbe Gates
    Dennis Nerpio
    Suzanne Perreault
    Vicky Ryan

    Business of the Year presented by Adecco
    Evan’s Consulting Ltd
    Gabi & Jules Handmade Pies
    Kenneth Gordon Maplewood School
    Sirota’s Alchymy – Martial Arts & Life Skills Centre

    Professional of the Year presented by AutismBC
    Chris Arnold
    Grace larocci
    Jade Whittiker
    Patricia Kennedy

    Self-Advocate of the Year presented by AllWest Insurance
    Brody Butts
    Cassandra Fyfe
    Marcel Duruisseau
    Nicole Provost

    To learn more about the awards visit: www.autismbc.ca/autismawards

    To purchase tickets to attend the awards click here

    Nominations for 2019 will reopen February 01, 2019 – March 01, 2019.

    Thanks again to our 2018 Event Partners: