About Us
Our Mission
The mission of the organization is to support autistic children, adolescents, and adults. First, by promoting public awareness and understanding of what it means to live with autism and its impact on the community (parents, friends, extended family, teachers, etc.); and second, by helping autistic individuals become fully included members of society. The organization provides support to enrich the lives of autistic individuals through artistic programs, physical activities, recreation, and respite services.
Our History
S.Au.S. began its journey in 2009 with the launch of the first Autism Awareness Run/Walk, created to raise both awareness and support for autistic individuals. The following year saw the introduction of its core leisure initiatives—“Adapted Play - Open Gym,” “Family Swim,” and “Music Therapy.” In 2011, the second official Autism Awareness Run/Walk took place, establishing the event as the organization’s primary annual fundraiser.
In 2012, S.Au.S. hosted its first Benefit Gala, adding a secondary fundraising stream to its efforts. That same year, the organization officially registered as a non-profit and expanded its activity lineup with the addition of a soccer program. Growth continued with the launch of a dance activity tailored specifically for autistic participants in 2014, and the opening of its official office in Candiac at 9 Montcalm Blvd. North in 2015.
A major milestone came in 2016 when S.Au.S. achieved charitable status from the Canada Revenue Agency. That year also marked the launch of Camp Oasis, a summer day camp for autistic adolescents aged 13–21. In 2018, the organization expanded its social programming with the creation of Teen Club A, a group designed to foster connections among young adults.
By 2022, S.Au.S. began serving an even broader community, introducing programs for individuals aged 21 and older in partnership with ACCESS Brossard and the Riverside School Board. In November of that year, adult day programs were launched with a focus on mental health and family support. The following year, S.Au.S. moved into a new, larger facility, incorporating an expanded administrative office and a dedicated adult day center where its growing programs continue to operate.
Our Board of Directors
The board of directors occupies a prominent place in the organization's governance system. Its main role is to look after the interests of the organization and its members while being mindful of the impacts of their decisions on stakeholders. In other words, the primary mission of an administrator is to ensure the sustainability of the organization. The board of directors reports to its members at the annual general meeting.
Alexander Bayus
President
Alexander Bayus is a lawyer and partner at Fasken, specializing in insolvency and litigation. He helps clients navigate complex business disputes and corporate restructurings and has been recognized by Best Lawyers in Canada and Lexpert. After years of involvement with S.Au.S., Alex recently joined its Board of Directors, bringing his pragmatic optimism and ambition to support the organization’s continued growth and evolution.
Jeff Desruisseaux
Treasurer
Jeff Desruisseaux is the Founder and CEO of Cleo, a Hydro-Québec subsidiary advancing transportation electrification, and President of Arthur Rowan Group, advising startups and growth organizations. With broad experience in transportation, cleantech, and digital media, he combines entrepreneurial vision with executive expertise. Committed to sustainability and community, Jeff supports initiatives like Cycle Momentum and Academos while serving on the S.Au.S. Board of Directors.
Debra Dorey
Secretary
Debra is a Program Manager at ARC Assistance and Referral Centre, part of the Montérégie-Centre Health and Social Services Network. She studied Business Administration at Concordia University and Internet Marketing at UBC, and has built a career in marketing communications across three provinces. Passionate about community, Debra has long volunteered in programs supporting children and seniors, and now brings her experience to the S.Au.S. Board of Directors.
Natacha Laberge
Director
Natacha Laberge is a mechanical engineering technician at Bombardier with 26 years of experience. A proud mother of two, her son William has been part of the S.Au.S. family for over eight years, participating in swimming, soccer, and Camp Oasis. Family-oriented and deeply committed to justice and equal rights, Natacha brings her dedication and loyalty to supporting the mission and success of S.Au.S.
Natalie Noureldin
Director
Natalie Noureldin joined the S.Au.S. Board of Directors in 2024. A proud mother to a son who thrives in S.Au.S. programs, she also serves as Director of Customer Service at the Montreal SPCA. Passionate about advocacy for vulnerable populations and animals, Natalie brings her dedication and experience in the philanthropic world to help create a supportive and lasting environment for those unable to advocate for themselves.
Isabelle Belanger
Director
Isabelle is a real estate broker with Royal Lepage Blanc & Noir and the mother of three, including a young adult who has been part of S.Au.S for years. Her son loves the activities and has grown in confidence since joining.
Attentive and passionate about helping others, Isabelle joins the board to help more people discover S.Au.S and to represent the voices of families she already knows and trusts.
Our Executive Director
Lisa Kelly's journey within the organization reflects her dedication and capability to take on increasingly impactful roles. With a solid educational background from Concordia University, holding both a bachelor's and master's degree, she brings a depth of knowledge to her work. Her experience as a mother of three underscores her empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by families within the autism community.
Having worked extensively with the public prior to joining S.Au.S., Lisa possesses invaluable communication skills that enable her to bridge the gap between the organization and its stakeholders, including parents, employees, and volunteers. This ability to connect and engage with various groups ensures that S.Au.S. remains responsive to the needs of the community it serves.
In addition to her role at S.Au.S., Lisa serves on the Governing Board of the Riverside School Board’s ACCESS Adult Education and Vocational Training. She is also an active member of the Corporation de développement communautaire (CDC) Roussillon’s Comité Vie associative. In 2024, she joined the Board of Directors of Seniors Respite Montérégie, where she currently holds the position of vice-president. These implications highlight her broader commitment to community development and education.
Overall, Lisa Kelly's blend of academic expertise, personal experience, and professional background makes her an invaluable asset to S.Au.S., serving as the perfect link between the organization and its stakeholders.
Our Founder
My name is Audrey Burt, founder of S.Au.S. Since 2009, I have devoted my time and energy to build a charitable organization dedicated to helping families living with Autism. The organization consists of a handful of volunteers who work tirelessly to create and provide leisure programs for children with autism, who otherwise don’t fit into regular stream programs.
We are a small organization with BIG HEART. In October 2015, S.Au.S. opened an office located at 9 Montcalm Blvd. North in Candiac, where myself and my colleagues execute the day to day operations.
I started this organization for the overwhelming love I have for my son and the passion I have for helping others.
– Audrey Burt
In October 2020 Audrey stepped down from all formal roles within S.Au.S. but continues to advocate for people and families living with autism.