Different approach.
Different possibilities.
Community Lab was created to offer something many families struggle to find - experiences intentionally designed for neurodiverse youth.
We provide experiential programming integrating body, mind, and autonomy into meaningful and memorable experiences.
Our programs are grounded in lived experience, professional practice, and a commitment to thoughtful, adaptive design.
We meet participants where they are - helping them try new things, explore more within their community and connect with others along the way.
Curated experiences.
Intentionally small groups.
Mindful support.
These are not marketing phrases layered over a conventional program. They are program-design decisions that shape who we serve, how we group participants, how we prepare, and how we approach each experience.
Children do not experience an activity in isolation. They experience the room, noise, people, instructions, transitions, expectations, uncertainty, pace and support around them.
Community Lab pays attention to those conditions because they directly influence participation.
We understand what it feels like to search for something that actually fits your child.
Community Lab was created by a family navigating autism firsthand. We know what it feels like to find an opportunity that is technically available to your child, but not necessarily designed in a way that works for your child.
So we approach things differently.
Meaningful adaptation starts with the participant, not the activity.
We think about the child, the group, the environment, the expectations, the transitions and the support required — then design the experience around those realities.
This work began within our own family and grew from a desire to build the kind of environment we wished existed.
“They met her where she was each day with genuine patience and positivity, adapting effortlessly to her needs rather than trying to fit her into a rigid mold... Most importantly, our daughter had a wonderful time and came home smiling.”
— Community Lab Parent, Summer 2026
Meet our Founder
Lisa Vieno
Lisa brings years of lived experience navigating autism, specialized services and individualized learning as the mother and primary caregiver of her autistic son. She has homeschooled him since Grade 1, while coordinating multidisciplinary service teams, managing individualized supports and training the Behavioural Aides who have worked alongside their family.
Through that experience, Lisa has developed a deep understanding of how structure, communication, environment and the right level of support can shape a child’s ability to participate, learn and build confidence. She has become a trusted resource to other caregivers and professionals, and a strong advocate for children and families navigating systems that do not always fit their needs.
Meet our Program Lead
Dayanara Joseph
Dayanara brings a background in adaptive recreational programming and direct experience supporting neurodiverse children and youth. She holds a Bachelor of Health & Physical Education from Mount Royal University, with a focus on physical literacy and inclusive recreation.
Her work centers on intentional, engaging activities that build confidence and independence. She adapts programming thoughtfully to each participant’s strengths and needs, in partnership with families.
She has been directly involved in delivering adaptive programing with the YMCA, Vecova, AAFS, and SLS.
Conversation-first intake.
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01. Connect
Family expresses interest and we schedule a short call.
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02. Understand
We learn about the child, their interests, participation style, support needs and what tends to work.
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03. Collaborate on Fit
Family and Community Lab consider the experience, environment, group and support available.
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04. Registration
The family receives next-step registration and placement information.
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05. Prepare
Collect detailed participant information and provide experience-specific preparation.
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06. Particpate
Deliver the experience with mindful support and follow through into future opportunities where appropriate.
❊ FAQs
You’ve got questions,
we’ve got answers
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We’ve had many families successfully qualify for program funding, however, every FSCD contract is different.
Please contact your FSCD caseworker.
If you need program details to help support, email info@communitylabadaptive.ca or call (403) 771-7999.
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Yes - we are unable to provide dedicated 1:1 supervision or support persistent non-participation.
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We intentionally maintain small group sizes with a typical staff-to-participant ratio of approximately 1:3, depending on the needs and dynamics of the group.
Ratios are intentionally adjusted based on participant profiles to ensure safety, regulation support, and meaningful engagement.
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No. Community Lab provides experiential programs based on modern adaptive practices and principles.
We are not a clinical or therapy program.
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Community Lab is led by professionals with experience supporting neurodiverse youth across recreational, educational and specialized service settings.
Our team understands regulation, sensory needs, and communication differences. Staff are trained in response strategies, structured support practices, and maintaining safe environments.
We prioritize preparation, supervision, and thoughtful modification throughout the program.
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We encourage a conversation to ensure alignment.
• We schedule a short 15–20 minute call
• We learn about your child and what supports help
• We determine if the program is a good fit
• If it is, we guide you through next stepsPlease contact us.
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You will receive regular communications and ongoing opportunities to engage.
