The Harris LaCosta Merit Award was created to increase awareness of the achievements of persons on the autism spectrum.  

Autism Connections recognizes that individuals who receive a diagnosis of autism face many challenges not faced by individuals who do not have an autism diagnosis.  We also know that diagnosis is not destiny. Individuals on the spectrum have demonstrated exceptional achievements in almost every walk of life.  There are many examples of autistic individuals who have achievements well beyond what we see among the general population (e.g., winning gold medals at the World Special Olympics; becoming a world leader in the climate activist community).   Sometimes achievements may not be exceptional by general population standards, but the achievements show incredible personal growth and development (e.g., an individual who has very limited communications skills as a child but over the years becomes fluent in both speech and written word; an exceptionally shy child goes on to become a comedian). 

Many of these individuals go unrecognized or receive limited recognition.  We believe it is important for the public to understand what persons on the autism spectrum can do with adequate supports.  In addition to the celebration of the personal achievements of the recipient, this award will include a prize of $500.

Nominations: 

Nomination applications may be submitted at any time during the year. Those received by October 31^st will be considered for an award to be announced at the Annual General Meeting of Autism Connections (usually held in January).  A committee will be appointed annually by the Board of Directors to make the selection.  While the recipient will be announced at the annual AGM, a presentation will be made at a reception at a later date. 

The award will be given to a person who best meets the selection criteria set out below.  

• A person diagnosed with autism who lives in the province of New Brunswick.

• The person nominated will be at least 16 years of age.

• The nominee has demonstrated exceptional and/or consistent achievements.

• Specific achievements must be clearly documented in the application.  

• These achievements may be in any area, but the areas of achievement typically could include academics, arts, athletics, business, entertainment, literature, music, and social enterprises.

1. ACF Board members or their family members are not eligible during their term of office.
2. Individuals will not be considered if they have received an award within the last five years. 

If you know a person living in New Brunswick who may qualify and you wish to submit a nomination for consideration for this award, please complete the online application, or complete a paper copy and submit it to us in person or by e-mail to: admin@autismconnections.ca with the title Harris LaCosta Award Application.