Canucks Autism Network (CAN) has always been a place of connection, support, and possibility. Their programs and training change lives, but their website? It wasn’t reflecting the magic people experienced in person. Families, Autistic adults, and partners found it hard to navigate. Information was buried, accessibility was a challenge, and the heart of CAN wasn’t shining through.
That’s where we came in.
Listening First, Designing Second
From the very start, our approach was built on deep listening. “The ever-talented Harc team facilitated many beautifully collaborative conversations and demonstrated thoughtful listening that helped ground the direction of the project,” said Lindsay Petrie, CAN’s Communications Lead.
People loved CAN, but they struggled to understand the scope of its work. They weren’t sure how the Vancouver Canucks were connected. Training bookings felt complicated, and the programs section felt overwhelming. One thing became crystal clear: the website needed to be more than just functional. It needed to feel like CAN.
Bringing the Magic Online
With those insights in hand, we tackled the biggest challenges:
✔ Centering Accessibility – We stripped away overwhelming layouts, adjusted colors for better legibility, and prioritized clear navigation. Autistic adults and families needed a space that felt as easy to use as CAN’s in-person programs felt welcoming.
✔ Prioritizing Mobile Access – Parents, staff, and Autistic individuals told us they needed information on the go. We made sure the mobile experience was just as seamless as the desktop one.
✔ Simplifying Navigation – We reworked the menus and search function, making it easier to find exactly what you need—whether it’s a program, training opportunity, or membership details.
✔ Clarifying CAN’s Story – We made space to explain CAN’s history, its relationship with the Vancouver Canucks, and its evolving mission.
The Journey & Lessons Learned
This project had its share of challenges. Like many nonprofits, CAN was stretched for capacity, which meant timelines shifted. Through it all, we adapted, checked in, and kept the work moving at a pace that felt manageable. “I felt deeply supported by Jarren throughout the long-drawn-out process that was entirely due to our team’s limited capacity,” Lindsay shared. “His thoughtful check-ins and gentle approach to moving the project along amidst unforeseen challenges were both comforting and appreciated.”
A Website That Feels Like Home
Today, CAN’s website is clearer, more accessible, and—most importantly—reflects the warmth and impact of its work. Families can find programs more easily, training partners can connect with confidence, and CAN’s story is told with heart.
And at the end of it all? Lindsay summed it up best: “We’re thrilled with the new site.”
