Saccomano Family Champions Meaningful Inclusion Across BC for Two Decades

“I’ve always said, if you’re going to do this, you’ve got to be passionate about what you do and believe in it, then people will follow,” said Steve Saccomano.

That passion has fueled nearly two decades of fundraising to support families in the autism community.

When Saccomano’s son was diagnosed with autism at just four years old, he and his wife felt overwhelmed.

“Like every other parent, when you first get the diagnosis, you get what I call that deer-in-headlights look,” Saccomano recalled. “We didn’t know where to go, what to do.”

As they navigated their journey and found resources for their son, the Saccomanos felt called to help other families facing the same uncertainty.

“We decided to do our part in supporting the community, to raise awareness, funds, and work with other families as well,” he said.

That decision led to the creation of two beloved fundraisers: the Agriculture for Autism Golf Tournament, now entering its 19th year, and, later, the Sturgeon Fishing Derby, heading into its 7th.

Early into their fundraising journey, the Saccomanos met PAFN Founders Wendy and Sergio Cocchia, and were moved by their vision for a purpose-built centre of excellence for autism in Richmond.

“I met Wendy and Sergio, and I can still remember sitting in their boardroom looking at the model of what they were trying to accomplish back then,” Saccomano said. “Immediately, I said to them, I want to be part of this.”

From that point on, fundraising efforts supported PAFN. The family’s early contributions helped fund the lifestyle classrooms, and later, they turned their efforts toward helping to open a spoke in the Fraser Valley.

For Saccomano, seeing family’s benefit has been the greatest reward.

“When a family comes up to me and just says thank you for what you’re doing, it means a lot,” he said. “There’s such a sense of satisfaction knowing that we’re helping families but also creating more awareness and support within the community.”

“We’ve got people that have supported us right from the start, and they continue because they know how important it is,” he added.

Looking ahead, Saccomano hopes to see PAFN’s impact continue to grow.

“The sky’s the limit,” he said. 

Sponsorship opportunities for the Annual Agriculture for Autism Golf Tournament and Sturgeon Fishing Derby are already open. To inquire, click this link ➡️ https://www.saccomaniacsgolf.com/store