For Toronto-based compliance officer Nick Savona, supporting autism research is more than a charitable endeavor—it’s deeply personal. As a father of a son with Asperger’s syndrome, Savona has witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by families navigating a world with limited resources and understanding of autism spectrum disorders.
“He’s not high on the spectrum, but we saw the challenges dealing with schools, school boards, and the Ontario government,” Savona recalled. “No one really knew what to do about autism in general.”
Though his son, now 23, is thriving, Savona recognizes that many families continue to face significant hurdles. That’s what inspired him to join Bay Street Rides FAR, an annual fundraising event dedicated to autism research.
Riding for a Cause
Bay Street Rides FAR, which began in New York 11 years ago and has since expanded to Baltimore and Toronto, offers participants the chance to cycle distances of 50, 20, or 10 kilometers, or take part in a five-kilometer walk. The event raises funds for the Autism Science Foundation, a U.S.-based charity founded by Alison Singer, whose daughter has autism.
“The funds that we raise in Canada, we want to invest in Canadian research,” said Singer. “The research on autism that’s happening in Canada is some of the best that’s happening anywhere in the globe.”
This year’s Toronto event, held in October, drew 130 participants and raised a total of $115,000. Savona emerged as the event’s top fundraiser, contributing $5,600 to the cause.
From Participant to Advocate
Savona’s commitment to autism research has extended beyond fundraising. After participating for the first time last year, he joined the board of directors for Bay Street Rides FAR. He is already planning for next year’s event, with ambitions to double his fundraising total.
“I don’t think there’s anyone I’ve spoken to that hasn’t said, ‘You don’t see a lot of fundraising for autism research,’” Savona shared.
He also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from colleagues in the financial industry, where his dual roles at Independent Trading Group and Newton Crypto have provided a platform to amplify his efforts.
A Growing Movement
The funds raised by Bay Street Rides FAR are making a tangible impact, supporting groundbreaking autism research and providing hope to countless families. For Savona, it’s about creating a brighter future for those who face challenges similar to those his family once navigated.
With next year’s ride already on his horizon, Savona’s dedication underscores a growing movement to better understand autism and provide critical support to affected families.
