VANCOUVER, BC - Vancouver Whitecaps FC have partnered with Pacific Autism Family Network to ensure that attending ‘Caps home matches at BC Place is more comfortable for those with autism and their families.
Beginning at tomorrow’s home match versus New York Red Bulls, toolkits will be available in-stadium to help improve the match day experience for those with autism and their families.
The toolkits will include noise-cancelling headphones, a Whitecaps FC sensory toy, a Whitecaps FC player sticker book, stickers, and a t-shirt.
“We are proud to partner with Pacific Autism Family Network,” said Whitecaps FC President Bob Lenarduzzi. “As an inclusive organization, we strive to ensure everyone can attend and enjoy Whitecaps FC matches. This initiative will open up doors for many families who would not otherwise be able to attend a stadium event.”
Whitecaps FC is also providing Pacific Autism Family Network with tickets in a designated section for every remaining home match this season. Pacific Autism Family Network will distribute the tickets to those with autism and their families as part of their GAMECHANGERS program.
“There are so many families in B.C. who unfortunately cannot attend stadium events because it can be too overwhelming for our loved ones with Autism or related disorders,” says Pacific Autism Family Network Co-Founder, Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia. “We have such an incredible community partner in Vancouver Whitecaps FC; they truly want to ensure an inclusive and fun experience for everyone, and together, we are taking steps to make that happen.”
Saturday’s highly anticipated match versus New York Red Bulls kicks off at 4 p.m. PT. Autism toolkits will be available for pick-up at BC Place Guest Services at Section 234 beginning at 3 p.m. PT.
To learn more and take part in the GAMECHANGERS program, join the Pacific Autism Family Network by clicking here.
About Pacific Autism Family Network
The Pacific Autism Family Network (PAFN) is a charitable organization with a mandate to serve the lifespan needs of individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder and all related disorders. Founded by parents Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia and Sergio Cocchia, with the vision to break down the barriers to access across the province, the PAFN has collaborated with over 60 organizations to address essential lifespan needs for those affected by autism, all within one network. The network aims to ensure that all British Columbians have access to state-of-the-art resources for assessment, treatment, education-support and research, providing a “one-stop-shop” for families looking for help in their navigation of available information and services.
