Different Abilities in The Ark

Welcome to the Ark

The Ark is a non-profit organization that focuses

on fostering inclusivity for children with autism.

The mission of The Ark is to lay the foundations

for better development, social skills, and therapy

for these children.

Helping children with autism grow, connect, and thrive.
We focus on inclusivity, development, and social support

"The greatest gift you can give a child with autism is the tools to communicate with the world

and the foundation of support and love to help them thrive."

– Dr. Temple Grandin

"The greatest gift for a child with autism is the support and tools to help them connect and thrive."

– Dr. Temple Grandin

Help Our Mission

For Better

Understanding

1 in 66

That is how many children
in Ontario are diagnosed

with the condition.

That is how many children
in Ontario are diagnosed

with the condition.

Which is roughly 2% of the child population

in Ontario.

Which is roughly 2% of the child population

in Ontario.

5-17

Are the ages where we most

find people on the spectrum

Are the ages where we most

find people on the spectrum

in 2020 the Annual Ontario Report showed that

there are approximately 135.000 people on the

autism spectrum

In Ontario alone, over 135,000

people are on the autism spectrum.
– 2020 Annual Report

And that number is still growing!

Out of these numbers, around

55.000 children within that

age range are still on the

wait to receive funding from

theOntario government.

It is important to note that the older the

child gets, the less funding they are

eligible to receive.

It is important to note that the older the

child gets, the less funding they are

eligible to receive.

Out of these numbers, around

55.000 children within that

age range are still on the

wait to receive funding from

theOntario government.

Because of the lengthy waitlist, many children are unable to access the therapies they desperately need, which makes it challenging for them to develop and thrive. This is exactly why The Ark was created: At The Ark, we offer these children the opportunity to receive the therapy and support they need

when it matters most.

Because of the lengthy waitlist, many children are unable

to access the therapies they desperately need, which makes it

challenging for them to develop and thrive. This is exactly why

The Ark was created: At The Ark, we offer these children the

opportunity to receive the therapy and support they need

when it matters most.

Many children face long waitlists for therapy—missing crucial early support.
The Ark exists to change that.
We give children access to therapy when it matters most.

Programs

Petting Zoo Therapy

Animal-assisted therapy, such as petting zoo

therapy, provides sensory-rich experiences that can

help children with autism develop social skills,

reduce anxiety, and enhance emotional regulation.

By interacting with animals, children learn empathy,

trust, and how to engage with the world in a calm,

structured environment.

Cooking Class Therapy

Cooking classes are designed to enhance life skills

through practical learning. Children with autism gain

confidence, improve motor skills, and develop social

interactions while following step-by-step

instructions.

Little Town Therapy

Little Town Therapy replicates real-world

experiences in a controlled, safe environment.

By role-playing everyday activities like shopping or

interacting with others, children with autism can

practice social skills, communication, and

problem-solving. This approach builds self-esteem

and prepares them for real-life challenges.

ABA, Speech, and OT Therapy

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is a proven,

evidence-based therapy that focuses on reinforcing

positive behaviours and reducing unwanted ones.

Speech Therapy addresses communication

challenges, while Occupational Therapy (OT) helps

with fine motor skills and sensory integration.

Sensory In/outdoors Therapy

Sensory therapy helps children with autism process

and respond to sensory input in a more organized

way. By providing both indoor and outdoor sensory

experiences—such as tactile play, water therapy, or

nature walks—this therapy improves sensory

integration, reduces overwhelm, and supports

emotional balance and focus.

A letter from the founder(s)

Different Abilities in The Ark

Little Town Therapy

Plus many more programs!

Programs

Little Town Therapy

Petting Zoo Therapy

Cooking Class Therapy

As a mother, my hope for my children is to see them embraced for who they are, supported through their challenges, and given every chance to succeed. The Ark provides just that—a safe space where children with autism can grow in a nurturing environment, developing skills that will carry them through life. What The Ark stands for is something deeply personal, as it’s about laying down a foundation of understanding, love, and opportunity. I’m grateful for their work, knowing it’s helping to create a future where all children, regardless of their challenges, can feel accepted and empowered.

- Giselle Leite

As a father, I know how important it is for every child to have the opportunity to grow and thrive in a world that sometimes feels overwhelming. The Ark offers a sense of hope, a place where children with autism can receive the support they need to build social skills and confidence. It's comforting to know that there are people dedicated to creating an environment where these kids can be their best selves. The mission of The Ark is one that I hold close to my heart, because it ensures that no child is left behind and that they have the tools to navigate the world around them.

- Adriano

Donate

This dream is bigger than us—it's about giving children the future they deserve, and we need your help to make it a reality

hello@differentabilitiesark.org

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