Family Support for Children with Disabilities Provincial Parent Advisory Committee
Rizwan, Tania
Tania Rizwan lives in Calgary with her husband and two boys. She has a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Alberta and is a professional engineer with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA). She has more than 15 years of experience in her field and currently works as a Technology Program Manager for TC Energy.
Tania has been involved in the autism community ever since her second son was diagnosed with non-verbal autism at the age of two. She is an unrelenting advocate and strong voice for her son and for all children with disabilities and is driven to help other families who have a need for resources and connections in the community. She is equally passionate about the meaningful inclusion of children with disabilities in our schools and community. She regards collaboration and bridging the FSCD program between families and the Committee Secretariat as an important aspect of supporting children with disabilities and their families and she feels privileged to be a part of the PPAC.
Behnke, Tanin
Tanin Behnke is the proud parent of three children, including her middle son, who was diagnosed at age 3 with severe, non-verbal autism, and eventually received an additional diagnosis of ADHD. Tanin is an advocate for all her children, but especially advocates to ensure that her middle son has access to the benefits and quality of life that all children deserve. The concept of active inclusion is something she is passionate about and works hard to instill compassion and empathy in her children, as well as awareness of inclusion to those in her circle of influence. As adoptive parents through both private agencies and foster care, Tanin and her husband are passionate about sharing their story and advocating for open adoption. Tanin enjoys volunteering, and was an elected member of the Peace River town council for a four-year term.
Competencies required for members of the FSCD-PPAC include knowledge of the policy affecting families of children with disabilities and the ability to build networks with communities. Members must also have teamwork skills and be the parent of a child receiving FSCD services from the Government of Alberta. Tanin Behnke was directly recruited and appointed on the basis of acceptably meeting the competencies, skills and attributes as described above.
Delainey, Tina
Tina Delainey is the Executive Director of the Autism Society of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo and previously held roles on their board of directors including treasurer, fundraising director and volunteer coordinator. She is also a parent to four children with disabilities and has earned a diploma in business administration and certificates in non-profit management and equity, diversity and inclusion. She is an active volunteer with St. John Ambulance as a medical first responder.
Competencies required for members of the FSCD-PPAC include knowledge of the policy affecting families of children with disabilities and the ability to build networks with communities. Members must also have teamwork skills and be the parent of a child receiving FSCD services from the Government of Alberta. Tina Delainey was directly recruited and appointed on the basis of acceptably meeting the competencies, skills and attributes as described above.