Image supplied by Hannah Vannery / Sept. 1 / Light Saber Hour at Pacific Autism Family Network.

By Laurice Gomes

Community

In a galaxy far far away: Light Saber Hour at Pacific Autism Family Network

Sep 1, 2022 | 7:09 PM

CHILLIWACK — On Thursday evening, neurodivergent children learned how to wield lightsabers like Jedis, thanks to two local organizations.

Light Saber Hour, a social event for autistic children in the community, was co-hosted by Pacific Autism Family Network and CR Sabers.

Hannah Vannery, who is the Fraser Valley spoke manager for Pacific Autism Family Network, said the idea first came to light when she connected with owner Chris Roden of CR Sabers through work.

“There’s a lot of Star Wars nerds out there, so I thought I’d pitch it to CR Sabers,” Vannery said. “It’s basically light saber lessons; there’s a variety of different light sabers and they’ll teach kids how to use them.”

When she first posted about the event on social media, it gained popularity. Now, another of its kind will be held next week—that one also fully booked.

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“Initially I had a trickle of parents that were interested,” Vannery said. “Then I think someone else had spread the news on a Chilliwack Facebook page, and I started to get a lot of messages.”

As sensory issues are always a concern with autism, Vannery said she was confident parents and caretakers would use their best judgement when bringing their children to the event. Approximately 12 people were in attendance for the event.

The Pacific Autism Family Network is always looking to host events, and Vannery said help is always needed.

“I’m looking for a couple of volunteers to help,” she said. “If anyone would like to teach something or do an event with me, let me know.”

For more information, people can visit https://pacificautismfamily.com/.

Image supplied by Hannah Vannery / Some of the light sabers used at the event.

by Laurice Gomes

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In a galaxy far far away: Light Saber Hour at Pacific Autism Family Network

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