Our Story
GIACI Canada is dedicated to enlightening, empowering, and supporting families and individuals on the autism spectrum by providing transformative insights, and resources. Our mission is to celebrate the unique aspects of autism, foster understanding and acceptance, and create a community where every autistic individual can thrive in their own perfect, imperfect way.
Our Mission Statement:
GIACI Canada stands for Giving Inspiring Autism Clarity Insights—a beacon for families navigating the waters of autism. Our mission is rooted in a deeply personal and universally resonant narrative.
At the heart of our story is Giaci, a young man whose journey with autism has been a beacon of tenacity and teaching. Giaci's world shared candidly with over half a million followers on social media, offers an unfiltered look into the life of an autistic individual and his family's unwavering support
Our matriarch, Rita Miceli, a seasoned educator, and award-winning author, provides the compass for this journey. Her memoir, "Giaci and Me: A Mother’s Journey of Loving and Raising an Autistic Child," offers a lifeline of empathy and understanding, extending a hand to caregivers and professionals alike. It's a reflection of decades of love, lessons, and learning, from the initial days of diagnosis to embracing the unexpected joys of life.
Rita's professional and personal experiences have cultivated a nurturing space where education meets advocacy. As a consultant, educator, advocate, coach, and an influential voice in the autism community, her contributions are multifaceted. From her tenure as the past president of Autism Ontario (Windsor/Essex Chapter) to her educational role in the Autism and Behavioural Science Graduate Program at St. Clair College, Rita's impact is profound.
At GIACI Canada, we don't just share our story; we offer guidance, support, and insights to illuminate your path. Our organization, inspired and named after Giaci, isn't just a personal tribute—it's a sanctuary for all on their autism journey. We stand to demystify autism, to celebrate its unique culture, and to recognize the valuable lessons it teaches us about life.