What
is autism?
Autism
Autism is a Neurotype and part of the range of natural variation in human neurological development.
Human beings have a diverse range of Neurotypes — “Neuro” meaning brain. This diversity in human Neurotype is what we call “Neurodiversity”.
Neurodiversity (“Brain Diversity”) includes other diagnoses such as Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder (ADHD), Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, Down Syndrome etc. and is a part of nature’s normal biodiversity. This biodiversity ensures all species have healthy ecosystems to thrive in. Autism is a Neuro (“brain”) developmental (“process of developing”) difference and may therefore be on a different developmental timeline.
Autistics may require a variety of supports in different areas at different times in their life across their lifespan.
At the Chinook Autism Society, we are proud allies of the neurodiverse community.
"Chinook Autism Society provides a network, giving confidence without any judgment conveying unique experiences. Our society believes that by working together and sharing our experiences we can gain insight, support and understanding. We are parents supporting parents, in making decisions that are best for our families."
Alex Hill - President of CAS 2023
GET INVOLVED
Do you need immediate help?
If you are experiencing a crisis, please contact your nearest Emergency department (911)
Suicide Crisis Help Line: 988
Mental Health Help Line: 1-877-303-2642
Distress Center Crisis Line: 1-800-303-2642
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 (text: 686868)
Canada Suicide Prevention Service: 1-833-456-4566 (text: 45645)
Alberta Family Violence Info Line: 310-1818 (text: 310-1818) Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310 (for immediate crisis intervention for Indigenous persons)
Poison and Drug Information: 1-800-332-1414
EVENTS
Sensory-Friendly Movie at The Movie Mill 🎬Thu, Feb 19Lethbridge
Brian Dawydiuk - Class Clown - Live Album RecordingThu, Feb 19902 6 St N
Annual General MeetingMon, Feb 23527 6 St S
Youth Support NightTue, Feb 24Lethbridge
Parent Support NightWed, Mar 11Lethbridge- Youth Support NightTue, Mar 24Lethbridge
- Parent Support NightWed, Apr 15Lethbridge
- Youth Support NightTue, Apr 21Lethbridge
- Youth Support NightTue, May 19Lethbridge
- Parent Support NightWed, May 27Lethbridge
Annual Superhero WalkSat, May 30Lethbridge
Youth & Family Nature Walk at Helen SchulerSat, Jun 20Lethbridge- Youth Support NightTue, Jun 23Lethbridge