About Us

Geneva Centre for Autism began as a 3 1/2-week overnight camp for a group of 20 children with autism in Toronto. Named after an international conference on autism in Geneva, Switzerland, this overnight camp became a recurring summer program.

The government grants funding for a follow-up program allowing staff to travel across Ontario to visit the homes of camp participants once a month.

Research reveals that while camp participants made great strides during the camp program and monthly visits, they were struggling without continued support throughout the year.

Begins the transition from a small-scale overnight camp into a full-service agency and resource centre, re-directing funding to a broader range of year-round non-residential services.

Designs and hosts the first international conference on autism, bringing together professionals, educators, parents and researchers from around the world to discuss the latest research and clinical practices in the field of autism.

The Training Institute is created to promote ASD community awareness and education.

The Geneva Centre for Autism Foundation is created to support the development and expansion of GCA services.

Program offerings expanded to provide support for adults and transition services.

112 Merton Street purchased as our permanent home.

The inaugural Toronto Partnership for Autism Services is formed with Surrey Place Centre, Adventure Place, Aisling Discoveries, Child and Family Centre, the Etobicoke Children’s Centre, and Geneva Centre for Autism.

Programming capacity doubled with the purchase of 164 Merton Street.

GCA purchases 224 Merton Street to further increase capacity.

Sonderly launches, an online hub for delivering autism and neurodiversity training globally, with a full curriculum in English and French.

A virtual service delivery model and crisis respite program are created to support families through the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new Toronto Autism Services Network launches in partnership with Surrey Place, Geneva Centre for Autism, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Kerry’s Place Autism Services, Lumenus Community Services, Strides Toronto and SAAAC Autism Centre.

As we celebrate 50 years of service, we plan for the future to see significant progress in the acceptance and inclusion of autistic people in all aspects of community life.