top of page
BANNER 1 ENG (2).png

Toolkit for Businesses

In this toolkit for Businesses and World Autism Acceptance Day you will find a collection of resources, materials, and guidelines provided to businesses, to help them effectively communicate and raise awareness about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) on this specific day. Help us raise awareness, promote acceptance and understanding through the use and posting of the #hashtags, Graphics and Scripts to your social media platforms.

Why share our content?

For over 45 years Autism Canada has had a national perspective on the issues currently facing those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, their families, caregivers, and allies. Autism Canada’s primary mandate is to increase the quality of life and well-being of people on the Autism Spectrum through education, advocacy, and support.​

 

Autism Canada is proud to have served the autism community in Canada since 1976.

Educational Content

Why is Autism Acceptance Important?

Autism Acceptance is important for several reasons, and it represents a shift in perspective from focusing on "awareness" to embracing and understanding the diversity of individual autistics. 

What does Inclusion in the Workplace Mean?

Inclusion in the workplace provides every member of an organization with equal access to opportunities and resources, regardless of gender, race, disability or other characteristics. It is an integral element of company culture that allows employees to be authentic and make meaningful contributions.​

Empowering Individuals: Acceptance empowers individuals with autism by validating their experiences and promoting self-advocacy. When society accepts and understands neurodiversity, individuals with autism are more likely to have the confidence to express themselves and contribute meaningfully.

Enhancing Support and Resources: An acceptance-focused approach encourages the development of supportive environments and resources that cater to the diverse needs of individuals with autism. This can include educational programs, employment opportunities, and social services that promote inclusion.

 

Providing regular education about neurodiversity in the workplace as part of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts can help increase understanding and acceptance of Autistic individuals. This can include training on communication styles, brain styles, sensory needs, and workplace accommodations

Inclusive Businesses are vital for creating a supportive and accepting shopping and working environment. It involves embracing neurodiversity and promoting inclusion for all customers and employees, including those on the autism spectrum. Learn about the importance of neurodiversity in the workplace and practical strategies for creating a supportive environment for autistic and neurodivergent customers and employees

 

Contact training@autismcanada.org for more information about our Literacy Programs.

What Acceptance means to us:

 

1. Promoting Inclusivity: Acceptance fosters an inclusive society where individuals on the autism spectrum are valued for who they are. It encourages the idea that neurodiversity is a natural and valuable aspect of human diversity.
 

2. Respecting Differences:  Autism Acceptance emphasizes the importance of recognizing and respecting the unique strengths, abilities, and challenges of individuals on the autism spectrum. It challenges stereotypes and encourages people to see beyond societal norms.

 

3. Empowering Individuals: Acceptance empowers individuals with autism by validating their experiences and promoting self-advocacy. When society accepts and understands neurodiversity, individuals with autism are more likely to have the confidence to express themselves and contribute meaningfully.
 

4. Reducing Stigma: Promoting acceptance helps reduce the stigma associated with autism. It challenges negative stereotypes and misconceptions, fostering a more compassionate and understanding attitude towards individuals on the autism spectrum.
 

5. Enhancing Support and Resources: An acceptance-focused approach encourages the development of supportive environments and resources that cater to the diverse needs of individuals on the autism spectrum. This can include educational programs, employment opportunities, and social services that promote inclusion
 

6. Improving Mental Health: A culture of acceptance can positively impact the mental health and well-being of individuals with autism. Feeling accepted and understood reduces the social and emotional challenges that may arise from societal expectations and prejudices.
 

7. Building Stronger Communities: Embracing neurodiversity contributes to the creation of stronger, more cohesive communities. By valuing the unique perspectives and talents of individuals with autism, society can benefit from a broader range of skills and contributions.
 

8. Shifting from a Pathological Model to a Neurodiversity Paradigm: Autism Acceptance challenges the traditional pathological model of viewing autism as a disorder that needs to be "fixed" or "cured." Instead, it promotes a neurodiversity paradigm, acknowledging that neurological differences are natural variations of the human brain.

How can your Business get Involved?

1. Spread Awareness with Visuals: Print and display our banners around your business or add them to your social media pages to promote acceptance and inclusion. Share our pre-made social media posts on your business' platforms. Don’t forget to use the provided hashtags (see below) to join the broader conversation and show your support for the Autistic community.

 

2. Fundraise for a Cause: Organize a Loonie or Toonie drive at your business—every small contribution adds up to make a big difference for Autism Canada. Looking for more ideas? Reach out to Heather at heather@autismcanada.org for creative fundraising suggestions tailored to your business.

3. Make a Direct Impact: Consider donating to Autism Canada to support our programs and initiatives. Every dollar helps create a more inclusive world for individuals on the Autism Spectrum and their families.

Be sure to share any activities you partake in with us through the email media@autismcanada.org to be featured on our social media!

Hashtags

#WAAD #Autism #InclusionRevolution #Neurodiversity #Autismfamily #AutismAwareness #InclusionMatters #AutismAdvocacy #Ausome #AutismCanada

Advocating alongside and supporting individuals on the autism spectrum, their families and caregivers living in Canada

image.png
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • LinkedIn
  • YouTube

 © 2024 Autism Society Canada Société canadienne de l’autisme. All materials, written and presented, are the sole property of Autism Canada, the SARA Project and any licensed training delivery partners or programs within Autism Canada. No materials, written or presented, may be rebranded, redistributed or otherwise marketed or shared without the express written consent of Autism Canada or its authorized representative. Any logo, similar depiction, assumed affiliation with Autism Canada or any of its programming will be addressed through legal representation as a violation of copyright and intellectual property owned by Autism Canada | Registered Charitable Number: 13160 7657 RR0001

IC-Standards_Trustmark_Stacked_White_Bilingual.png
image.png
Digital Accessibility Badge_Dark Mode.png
bottom of page