About Us

The Pacific Autism Family Network (PAFN) is a network of support for individuals and families with autism and related neurodiversities. PAFN has spokes spanning British Columbia with each location offering a variety of resources across the lifespan.

Supporting Meaningful Inclusion for all

The Pacific Autism Family Network is committed to being a provincial Knowledge Centre dedicated to addressing the lifelong needs of individuals with autism and related neurodiversities and their families throughout British Columbia. Our core purpose is to provide state-of-the-art resources, information, treatment and support to facilitate meaningful inclusion within the community and maximize everyone’s potential.

Governed by the community and supported by professional advisory committees, we operate as a not-for-profit. Our aspirational goal is for British Columbia to become the premier destination for individuals with autism within the next decade. To achieve this vision of success, we will continue to deliver high-quality programs, foster innovative practices, forge partnerships with researchers and community professionals to maintain a cutting-edge research facility integral to our mission. Through these efforts, we aim to ensure individuals with autism receive the support they need to thrive across the lifespan.

As a family-centred organization, we uphold a commitment to innovation, evidence-based practices and equitable access to services regardless of location or economic circumstance.
Our Richmond centre is a state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility spanning 60,000 square feet. It is meticulously crafted with a focus on addressing the unique needs of individuals across all age groups affected by autism. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by calming, family-friendly spaces adorned with soft lighting, creating a comfortable and relaxing space. These spaces serve as the backdrop for a wide array of essential facilities and amenities, including cutting-edge health clinics staffed by expert professionals, advanced laboratories equipped for ground-breaking research, and innovative education spaces designed to empower individuals with autism through tailored learning experiences.

Beyond its physical infrastructure, the centre embodies a philosophy of openness, uniqueness, and collaboration. It serves as a vibrant place for some of British Columbia's most prominent non-profit autism services, uniting their efforts in a shared mission to enhance the lives of individuals and families affected by autism.


Tours and Room Rentals at PAFN


TOURS
Would you like to learn more about the Pacific Autism Family Network and explore our Richmond facility in person? We would be pleased to provide you with a comprehensive tour to highlight our supports, services and resources. Please complete the form below to get started. We look forward to welcoming you to PAFN!

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TOUR

RENT A ROOM
Our Richmond location offers a selection of rooms for rent, subject to availability. Whether you're planning a meeting, event, or special gathering, our bright and modern spaces are perfect for your needs.

Building Hours:
8:00 AM to 6:00 PM Evenings and weekends are available upon request, subject to additional charges and availability.

Catering Services:
Looking for catering for your event? PAFN’s Paper Planes Café, in partnership with YVR Airport and dedicated to hiring and training neurodiverse staff, is here to serve you. From delicious sweet and savory treats to refreshing coffees and teas, our café team is ready to meet all your dining and beverage needs.

Room Rates:
Auditorium: $1,250
Boardroom: $500
Meeting Room: $400

For inquiries, contact Building Manager, Chris Newby or call 604-207-1980

Meet The PAFN Team

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Sergio Cocchia o.B.C. LL.D. (Hon)

Board of Directors
Board Chair, President

Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia C.M., O.B.C., LL.D. (Hon)

Board of Directors
Founder / Co-Chair of Fundraising Committee

Jack McGee

Board of Directors
Board Treasurer

Peter Raptis

Board of Directors
Board Member

Renée Watters

Board of Directors
Board Member

Walter Pela, FCPA, FCA

Board of Directors
Board Member

Bailey DeBruin-Stam

Staff
Manager of Employment Initiatives

SF Walker

Staff
Manager, Voices of Autism

David Patchell-Evans

Board of Directors
Board Member

Peter Webster

Board of Directors
Board Member

Pamela Martin

Board of Directors
Board Member

Greg D’Avignon

Board of Directors
Board Member

Stefan Chiru

Board of Directors
Board Member

Amyn Khimji

Staff
Controller

Joanna Nefs

Staff
CEO AIDE Canada

Chris Newby

Staff
Building Manager

Evan Rubin

Staff
Inclusion Community Engagement Manager

Eva Li

Staff
Little Pilots Manager

Sayana Fawkes

Staff
Employment Placement Manager

Michelle Auton

Staff
JET Team Lead

Elika Hodania

Staff
JET Team Lead

Kathryn Donabedian

Staff
Front Desk Manager

Hannah Vannery

Staff
Manager - Fraser Valley Spoke

Ashleen (Ash) Massicotte

Staff
Manager - Prince George Spoke

Join our online family!

Subscribe to the PAFN Post monthly newsletter for updates on PAFN's latest developments, inclusive events, and access to information and resources.

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