In the beginning, it was a lonely endeavor.
Kim Inglis of Kelowna committed to paddling a kayak alone for 365 kilometres to raise some money for Autism Canada.
It was in memory of her late cousin, Tyler, who died in 2023, leaving a son, Ryder, who is on the autism spectrum.
“What started as a personal challenge here in Kelowna has become something much bigger than I ever imagined,” said Inglis.
“The fact that people from across Canada have come together to support autistic people and their families shows the incredible impact a community can have when united around a common purpose. It has been incredibly special to see Tyler’s legacy continue through this movement.”
After going it alone in 2024, Inglis’ ‘Making Waves for Autism’ concept caught on.
In the two years since, another 457 paddlers from across the country have taken part raising more than $110,000.
The money has helped Autism Canada launch its Community Assistance Program ahead of schedule.
In 2025, the program helped 56 families in 18 cities with funding for therapy, diagnostic assessments, mental health supports and respite services.
The average age of the autistic child helped was 9-years-old.
So far this year, the Community Assistance Program has received 134 applications for $150,000 in aid.
Making Waves for Autism has picked June as its prime fundraising month, urging individuals or teams to take on the 365 Challenge of paddling 365 kilometres as a fundraiser or to make a donation.
The 365 kilometres can be done in a single day, over a weekend or cumulatively throughout the month.
365 was chosen because that’s the number of days a year there is the reality of autism.
Making Waves for Autism has also expanded beyond paddling, inviting walkers, runners, cyclists and rowers to take the challenge to raise awareness, raise money and donate.
“The most important measure of success for me isn’t the fundraising total, it’s participation,” said Inglis.
“Every person who joins helps create conversations about autism. The more people who participate, the more awareness we create, and the awareness is what ultimately leads to acceptance and inclusion.”
Throughout June, people from the Kelowna Paddle Centre are logging kilometres during Thursday night races and community paddling sessions as part of the national challenge.
Drop-ins are welcome.
There’s also a Making Waves and Raising Pints event Friday, June 12 at Red Bird Brewing in Kelowna taht’s open to the public from 9 am to 5 pm.
The dry-land rowing challenge will see participants row 365 kilometres in a single day across multiple rowing machines.
Rowers can complete any distance, make a donation and enter to win prizes.
