Published May 3, 2024

LJI Reporter
Tashi Farmilo

As the Outaouais region reflects on World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, local organizations
continue to demonstrate their commitment to supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum
Disorder (ASD) and their families. Through a range of initiatives and resources, these
organizations aim to address the unique needs of the autistic community.

Connexions Resource Centre, in collaboration with Giant Steps, is organizing 101 workshops
for English-speaking ASD families scheduled for the fall. The centre is also working with the
Western Quebec School Board to organize a Transition to High School event specifically for
ASD students.

The centre’s array of services includes weekly playgroups at Cégep Heritage College, monthly
Family Resource Series webinars, and Parent-Child Speech Language Workshops. Connexions
Resource Centre also offers valuable information through its weekly Facebook Wellness Wednesday infographics, which have recently focused on ASD-related topics.

The centre’s Information & Referral Service plays a crucial role in assisting families to navigate
health and social services in English, connecting them with vital regional resources.
The CISSS de l’Outaouais also plays a significant role in supporting autistic individuals through
its Youth Program in Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder. This program offers
services aimed at optimizing the social participation of autistic individuals and supporting their
families, primarily in their homes and various living environments.

In celebration of the 40th edition of Autism Month, the CISSS de l’Outaouais organized several
activities, including a corporate lunch featuring snacks from the Autiste Café on April 26.
Additionally, the team will participate in the Autism Walk on April 27, a significant fundraising
event for the Trait d’Union Outaouais organization.

Trait d’Union Outaouais and Pierre Elliott Trudeau Elementary School invite the general public
to join in this great event to close autism month on April 27, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. “Open to
the general public, you’re all welcome to come and walk with us! Please register to confirm your
participation and help us prepare for the event! Don’t hesitate to share with others. Together,
let’s make the colours of autism shine,” they encourage. For more details and registration, visit
https://www.traitdunionoutaouais.com/en/activities-2024/detail/walk-for-autism-2024/51658.

Photo: Trait d’Union Outaouais and Pierre Elliott Trudeau Elementary School are hosting a
special walk to close Autism Month. (TF) Photo courtesy of Trait d’Union Outaouais

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