Autistic Advisory Council
- Luke Verhoeff
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
My Advocacy Update
Luke: I am delighted to be a member of the Autistic Advisory Council for the National Autism Network of Canada.
I have prayed for this opportunity to be paid for my passion, advocacy.
I am advising on a national scale.
This is bigger than anything I’d ever imagined.
I sit alongside highly revered autistic peers.
I am one of few representing non-speakers.
Our presence matters here.
I know my voice is heard and valued.
I know I can change the outcomes for the next generation of non-speakers.
I pray this council helps change the reality of how autism is treated, diagnosed, and perceived in Canada.
My work has only begun.
Buckle up, we have change to make!
Mission
Driven by Autistic people and their families, the National Autism Network informs Canada’s Autism Strategy and helps shape a future where Autistic people thrive.
Vision
A Canada where the lived and living experiences of Autistic people and their families shape policies, systems, and communities to foster full inclusion, equity, and opportunity at every stage of life.
Sandra:
When Luke was approached last fall to consider being a member of the Autistic Advisory Council for the National Autism Network of Canada, along with his friend, Damon Kirsebom, it was an easy “Yes.”
The expectations were laid out: 6 online meetings during the year, with agenda and meeting discussion notes sent out a week prior for our preview. We made arrangements right away with Brittney to book her time for these meetings. One of the meetings is in Ottawa, where the Board, the Committees, and the Councils would convene together in person. Click here for a list of all the changemakers. That collaborative meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 13, 2026.
We are excited to spend a week in Ottawa, to not only meet and work with incredible peers, but also have the privilege to attend the Autism Alliance of Canada’s 12th Annual Canadian Autism Leadership Summit (CALS) 2026. This is a changemaker’s dream, and we are excited to learn more about the amazing advancements in autism collaboration, research, and support.
Luke is very interested in history, so this “once in a lifetime” opportunity to see the Parliament buildings, the Canada Museum of History, take a guided tour of the Mint, check out the Rideau Canal, Byward Market, and so much more, is super exciting!
