On June 13–14, NorthStar WaveRiders proudly participated in the Paradragon division at the Toronto International Dragon Boat Race Festival on Centre Island. The event brought together athletes, volunteers, families, and supporters to celebrate teamwork, determination, and inclusion. For our team, every stroke reflected the power of working together and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to compete and thrive. We are proud of our athletes for their dedication, r

Introduction As the closing event of National AccessAbility Week (NAAW) 2026, the NorthStar Charity Golf Experience brought together children with autism, families, community members, and supporters for a day focused on inclusion, accessibility, and community participation through sport. The event provided a welcoming and supportive environment where participants of all abilities could enjoy golf while building connections and engaging with the broader community. Promoting Pa

As part of NAAW 2026, the NorthStar Ottawa Dragon Boat Community Experience brought children, families, and community members together for an afternoon of outdoor fun, teamwork, and connection on the water. Inspired by NorthStar’s established dragon boat program in Toronto, the Ottawa Community Experience focused on creating a welcoming and accessible environment where participants of all ages and backgrounds could enjoy nature and experience the spirit of teamwork through dr

Highgate Park, 37 Highgate Dr, Markham, ON June 2, 5:30–7:30 PM NorthStar Soccer hosted a Charity Soccer Engagement Event at Highgate Park in Markham. The event was built around a simple but meaningful idea: inclusion, connection, and participation through sport. More than a football activity, it was a shared community experience designed to bring children of different backgrounds together in one supportive space. Starting the Day on the Same Field As the event began, childr

“Accessibility is not just a ramp.” On May 31, 2026, at Pierre Elliott Trudeau High School in Markham, a meaningful community initiative centered on “inclusion,” “equality,” and “hope” took place. Representatives from government, education, community organizations, academia, and families with special needs gathered together to officially launch the 2026 National AccessAbility Week, advocating for a society where everyone can participate and everyone is seen. Event Coverage Th

The Opening Ceremony of National AccessAbility Week (NAAW) 2026, hosted by NorthStar Special Needs Society, received heartfelt greetings and messages of encouragement from distinguished government leaders across Canada. Among the leaders extending their support was The Right Honourable Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada, who shared a meaningful message recognizing the significance of National AccessAbility Week and the contributions Canadians with disabilities make across

In many Asian communities, conversations about disability, neurodiversity, and mental health are still shaped by silence, stigma, and misunderstanding. NAAW 2026 hopes to change that. Through a four-part online workshop series, we aim to create a safe and inclusive space where families, caregivers, youth, adults with disabilities, educators, healthcare professionals, and community members can learn, connect, and support one another. Because building an inclusive community beg

In every community, there are families quietly navigating challenges that often remain unseen. There are children seeking connection and belonging, and parents working tirelessly to help them feel included in a world that is not always designed with accessibility in mind. At NorthStar Special Needs Society, these experiences are at the heart of our mission. That is why we are honoured to serve as a co-organizing partner of the National AccessAbility Week 2026 initiative — a c

For many families raising a child on the autism spectrum, one word has often defined the journey: waiting. Waiting for assessments. Waiting for funding. Waiting for therapy to begin. The Ontario government’s 2026 budget signals an important shift—one that may help more children access support earlier. A Major Increase in Autism Funding The province is investing $965 million into the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) for 2026–27, including $186 million in new funding. What does thi

Look at these stunning creations—three dynamic horses in red, white, and gold, captured mid-motion with incredible detail and energy. This isn’t just art; it’s the result of imagination brought to life through 3D printing . These models were designed and printed by one of our talented 3D printing teachers, showcasing what’s possible when creativity meets technology. Every curve, every flowing strand, and even the “2026” base reflects precision, patience, and innovation. Why 3

We are thrilled to share an exciting milestone for the NorthStar community. The NorthStar StormRiders Hockey Team has officially been registered in the Hockey Canada Registry (HCR) system. This marks a historic step forward for our program and for the children and families who have been part of this journey. For the first time, our players are now part of Canada’s official hockey structure. This achievement belongs to every child, parent, coach, and volunteer who belie

On a joyful evening in the community, the North Star hockey and skating program welcomed Pierre Poilievre to the ice rink, where he spent meaningful time with the children both on and off the ice. Wearing skates and a bright red jersey, he joined the kids for an energetic session of skating and hockey, sharing laughter, encouragement, and genuine connection. The smiles on the ice said it all. Afterward, he spoke about how sports help children grow—not just physically, but in

In 2026, families gathered at Camp Adelaide for a warm and meaningful Chinese New Year celebration. This winter retreat was specially designed for families with special needs, creating a supportive and welcoming space to connect, share experiences, and celebrate together. Surrounded by snow-covered landscapes, families enjoyed classic Canadian winter activities while bringing the spirit of Lunar New Year into camp. From outdoor adventures in the crisp winter air to cozy even

NSNS and CCBAG’s 2026 New Year Charity Concert On January 4, 2026, the Canada Children’s Broadcasting Arts Group (CCBAG) successfully hosted its 2026 New Year Charity Concert in Toronto. Centered on the theme “Art Unites Us, Warmth Brings Us Together,” the concert marked a meaningful collaboration with NorthStar Special Needs Society (NSNS) , bringing children with autism and neurotypical children together on the same stage. Through music and performance, the event delivered

On December 5, our NorthStar families had an unforgettable afternoon at Scotiabank Arena, watching the thrilling NBA game between the Toronto Raptors and the Charlotte Hornets! For many of our kids, it was their very first time seeing a live professional basketball game — and the excitement in the air was incredible. When the game began, the arena exploded with cheers. Our kids joined right in — shouting, clapping, and proudly supporting the home team, the Toronto Raptors. Th

On the journey of raising a child with special needs, every step forward is hard-won, and every spark of progress can change a life. The story of NorthStar begins with one such spark—and has since grown into a constellation of hope for countless families. Benny: Racing Against Time To the children at NorthStar, he is “Uncle Benny”—warm, patient, and reliable. To many families, he is a guide who is always racing against time. As a single father of a child with autism, Benny u

Why Buddy Up Matters Every child deserves a friend — but not every child is taught how to make one. Children with autism and other developmental differences genuinely want friendships, yet struggle to read social cues, understand boundaries, or communicate in familiar ways. These challenges often lead to misunderstandings, isolation, and painful rejection. Inclusion is more than sharing a space. It requires a supported environment, intentional activities, and peers who unders

In his very first hockey game, Asher scored an incredible eight goals! This video looks so professional! Thank you, Asher’s mom, for capturing so many wonderful moments! After the match, he was overjoyed — and his mom couldn’t have been prouder: “He was so happy!” This remarkable progress is the result of NorthStar’s dedicated coaching team. Asher began his skating lessons in September of last year. At first, he was just a cautious beginner learning to find his balance on

Hockey is more than a game — it’s a way to build confidence, coordination, and friendships on and off the ice. Behind every successful session stands a dedicated coach who knows how to connect, encourage, and adapt to every child’s unique needs. In our latest video, you’ll see our specially trained hockey coaches in action — guiding children through skating, passing, and teamwork drills designed for players with special needs. Each coach brings not only hockey expertise but

Our basketball class is for children with special needs, providing a safe and supportive space to learn, play, and have fun. Children practice dribbling, passing, and shooting with guidance from our caring coach, and play simple games that teach teamwork and cooperation. Basketball helps children build confidence, improve coordination, stay active, and make friends. Join us and watch our children have fun and grow on the court!