français

                             

                  

Related image


Log in

DONATE NOW!


KEEPING YOU INFORMED


Events & Webinars

  • No upcoming events


In case you missed it...

Disponible en français seulement.

  • Culture and heritage groups seek targeted COVID-19 support

    Wednesday, April 22, 2020 1:10 PM | Deleted user

    OTTAWA, April 22, 2020 —Associations representing Canada’s museums, science centres, zoos, aquaria, public and botanical gardens and historic places have all joined forces and today issued the following open letter to the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Heritage.

    The open letter highlighted the critical risk to the safety and security of collections across the country and asked for the government’s increased attention in three key areas: immediate financial relief, an investment in digitization and considerations for the sector in a post-COVID-19 world. 

    The letter follows a panel discussion which took place last week, at an online conference organized by the Canadian Museums Association, in which organizations shared common concerns and challenges and explored what can be done by working together. Moving forward, the group will be working collaboratively on issues of common concern.

    Ottawa, April 22nd 2020

    The Honourable Steven Guilbeault
    House of Commons
    Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6
    By email: steven.guilbeault@parl.gc.ca

    Dear Minister:

    The undersigned organizations recently came together to discuss areas of common interest and begin the process of working together in order to reimagine a new way forward post COVID-19. Each organization represents an important piece of the Canadian fabric contributing to our cultural, environmental and economic makeup.

    With a focus on conservation, history, science, environment and education, our organizations strive to help record, define and reflect a snapshot of Canada’s history and the world around us. Going forward, we see promise in our ability to connect and cooperate to deliver on common objectives, specifically as we strive to adopt a National Museums Policy.

    Three ways we are helping Canadians and seek financial support in our efforts:

    Online digital engagement

    Our organizations are stepping-up to support Canadians by continuing to share our missions online with our audiences, through virtual tours, access to collections online, delivering educational content, and facilitating dialogue. With the transition to online engagement, new expenses are being incurred at a time when revenue losses are high.

    Protecting the economic engine

    Our organizations are among the many hard-hit industries facing immediate impacts, and this includes the safety and security of our collections across the country, which are at significant risk. Be it the wage subsidy program, federal tax deferrals or some form of loan guarantees, these initiatives will be necessary elements to aid our members as they rebuild after months of closures and reduced revenues. We are a network of related organizations all with the same urgent need: immediate relief for our members.

    Supporting Canada after COVID-19

    Our members provide unique perspectives and collectively, deliver a significant contribution to the health and well-being of Canadian society, especially now, as we rebuild and transform to a “new normal” post pandemic. Early data out of the United States points to people looking to return to cultural institutions, be they zoos, aquariums, public and botanical gardens, museums, or science centres as destinations to “get out”, and in this regard we are uniquely positioned to be able to provide the necessary support programs that will be launched post COVID-19.

    It is our hope that the Government of Canada will make the necessary investments and that you see value in the strength of our desire and ability to collaborate and educate as we strive to work with you to shape pertinent government policy going forward – policy that will reenergize our cultural and economic makeup across Canada from coast to coast to coast.

    Sincerely,

    Dr Vanda Vitali
    Executive Director
    Canadian Museums Association
    vvitali@museums.ca

    Dolf DeJong
    CEO
    Toronto Zoo
    ddejong@torontozoo.ca

    Dr Marianne Mader
    Executive Director
    Canadian Association of Science Centres
    mader@casc-accs.com

    Elizabeth McCrea
    Administrative Director
    Alliance of Natural History Museums of Canada
    mccrealiz@gmail.com

    Jim Facette
    Executive Director
    Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums
    jfacette@caza.ca

    Natalie Bull
    Executive Director
    National Trust of Canada
    nbull@nationaltrustcanada.ca

    Tracy Calogheros
    CEO, The Exploration Place Museum and Science
    Centre and President, Canadian Association of Science Centre
    tracy.calogheros@theexplorationplace.com

    Michel Gauthier
    Executive Director
    Canadian Garden Council
    director@gardencouncil.ca



  • CASC COVID-19 Update: Helping Canadians during COVID-19

    Thursday, April 16, 2020 2:27 PM | Deleted user

    April 16, 2020

    In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, in the Canadian Science Centre sector we are redoubling our efforts to serve our communities even while our facilities are closed. You are the science champions reaching Canadians in their homes each day during this crisis.

    Here at CASC we are thankful for the tremendous work of our members and your continued commitment to Planking the Curve, facilitating Science at Home, and in leading conversations about how to Support Canadians “after COVID-19”.


    CASC ADVOCACY EFFORTS

    > This week CASC has sent a Letter to the Ministers of Finance, Canadian Heritage, Innovation, Science, and Industry, and Environment, emphasizing how our member organizations are helping Canadians during the COVID-19 crisis and it outlines specific recommendations for relief funding measures to support their work. See Letter here.

    CASC also participated in a Heritage Panel as part of the Canadian Museum Association’s online conference Museums Together, along with representatives from the Canadian Museum Association (CMA), National Trust of Canada (NTC), the Alliance of Natural History Museums of Canada (ANHMC), and Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA).  This group of associations is working collaboratively to advocate for the broader cultural and heritage sector. The panel explored common concerns and challenges and discussed what can be done by working together. It included Tracy Calogheros, CASC President & CEO The Exploration Place, Marianne Mader, CASC Executive Director, and Dolf DeJong, CASC Board Member and CEO, The Toronto Zoo. 


    CONNECTING MEMBERS

    > Video Discussion Groups

    Topic: Supporting Teachers/School Closures Chat

    Apr 17, 2020 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

    An invitation to join the scheduled Friday calls has been extended to all CASC member staff working in programs, education, outreach, camps and childcare. An email with an invitation will be sent via email. Please contact info@casc-accs.com if you did not receive an invitation and would like to join

    Topic: CEO Discussion Forum

    Apr 17, 2020 2:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) 

    CASC will continue coordinating a "CASC COVID-19 Response Discussion" for CASC Member CEOs and Executive Directors. Invitations are sent via email.

    As we all continue to navigate this rapidly-evolving global situation, CASC is here to help, support, and connect our community during these challenging times. Please contact us at info@casc-accs.com if you have ideas for how we can further support your organization.


    NEWS FROM OUR NETWORK

    > Webinar by AAM: Lessons Learned from SARS: How Museums Emerge After Crisis

    On Wednesday, April 22, 2020 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm EST join key former members of the team who led the Ontario Science Centre through two crises in the early 2000s.

    They’ll share their experiences and strategies for:

    ·  Reopening the museum

    ·  Supporting team members

    ·  Reassuring visitors and potential visitors

    ·  Financial recovery

    Panelists:

    ·  Lesley Lewis, Chief Executive Officer, Ontario Science Centre (from 1998-2014)

    ·  Jennifer Martin, former Vice President of Visitor Experience, Ontario Science Centre; former and Founding Chief Executive Officer, TELUS Spark

    ·  Julie Bowen, former Associate Director of Development and Design, Ontario Science Centre; former Vice President of Visitor Experience, TELUS Spark

    > CASC Members Helping to Plank the Curve

    We want to acknowledge and thank CASC members who are supporting health care providers face this global pandemic. A few examples of science centres and museums stepping up include:

    Ingenium: Canada Science and Technology Museums has been 3D printing masks for the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) 

    TELUS World of Science Edmonton: The Alberta Government released its coronavirus model for Alberta on April 7, 2020.  Staff Scientist Mirabelle Prémont-Schwarz spoke with one of the specialists working on the model; Shakib Rahman, Data and Analytics at Covenant Health to find out more.

    THEMUSEUM : Are hosting a webinar with grief therapists Andrea Warnick, Nicola Elbro and Lisa Robinson on Wednesday April 29th about “Supporting Children and Youth Through COVID-19”.

    > CASC Members Sharing Online Educational Content

    Canadian science centres and science museums are supporting families by offering free online educational content. The "Science at Home" page on the CASC website is updated on a regular basis so that CASC members can see what each other are doing. We encourage you to share on your social media platforms and with your network using the following #AtHomeWithCASC  #ScienceChampions #LookForTheHelpers #ScienceAtHome. Here a just a few examples of what our members are doing:

    C.I.EAU : Sharing on their blog (en francais). 

    Musée de l'ingéniosité J. Armand Bombardier: Inviting the public for a tour of their facilities - Virtually!

    Okanagan Science Centre : Sharing science at home activities regularly on Youtube.

    Science East: Regular radio segment on CBC New Brunswick - Shift with Vanessa Vander Valk on “Science Experiments to keep the kids busy”. Live every two weeks on Wednesday afternoons. Next segment April 22, 2020. 

    Thanks to Michael Edwards for the shoutout to the CASC network in the April 8 segment at 4:10 mark!

    The Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre: Keeping children active Monday to Friday at 10 am with interactive, up-close visits with their animal ambassadors!


    ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM COMMUNITY COLLABORATORS & FRIENDS

    > CBC Creative Relief Fund 

    Canadian creators can apply until 11:59 pm ET on Friday, April 24, and eligible applicants will be notified of their project’s status starting on May 8.

    In response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, CBC has launched THE CBC CREATIVE RELIEF FUND to provide immediate, urgent support to Canadian creators. The unprecedented new Fund will provide $2 million in development and production funding for a diverse range of innovative, original Canadian storytelling, including scripted comedies and dramas, unscripted entertainment, kids and young adult programming, podcasts, play adaptations and short documentaries.

    > Pint of Science Canada - Invitation for Speakers from CASC Network

    Due to the pandemic, Pint of Science Canada Festival May 11-13th will be online this year.

    They have extended their "Call for Speakers" to the CASC network. They are looking for 15-20 min talks + Q&A. The audience would be for the general public and could focus on adults, youth-only, or families. If interested, please email your topic and target audience to Alexandra at canada@pintofscience.com by Monday April 20, 11:59 pm.

    > Science Odyssey 2020 is cancelled.

    Powered by NSERC, Science Odyssey demonstrates how discoveries and innovations shape our daily lives and foster a strong science culture in Canada.

    > NSERC Science Communication Skills Grant Deadline: May 15, 2020

    > Junior Astronaut Camp The registration period for youth to have a chance to win a spot to our Junior Astronaut Camp is extended until April 30, 2020.

    > April 22 is Earth day 2020: The world’s largest civic event is going digital for the first time in its history.


    CANADIAN COVID-19 ANNOUNCEMENTS

    > Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) Update: Yesterday, the Prime Minister of Canada announced more flexibility for the CERB. It will now allow people to earn up to $1,000 per month from other sources while collecting the CERB without penalty, extend the CERB to seasonal workers who have exhausted their EI regular benefits and are unable to undertake their usual seasonal work as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, as well as to workers who recently exhausted their EI regular benefits and are unable to find a job or return to work because of COVID-19. 

    > Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan Details on support for individuals and businesses.

    > Statistics Canada is asking Canadians to share details of how COVID-19 is impacting their lives. The survey will only take 5-10 minutes to complete and will help the Government of Canada identify the implications of COVID-19 in our daily lives. April 16 is the last day of the survey.

    > The Government of Canada has released new information on adding measures for more flexibility for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS).


  • CASC COVID-19 Update: Your continued commitment to Planking the Curve.

    Tuesday, April 14, 2020 9:39 AM | Deleted user

    April 9, 2020

    As many of us move into a long weekend, we hope you are able to spend time with family and loved ones (at home or while practicing social distancing!). It’s an opportunity for reflection and gratitude. Here at CASC we are thankful for the tremendous work of our members and your continued commitment to Planking the Curve, facilitating Science at Home, and in many cases leading conversations on Supporting Canadians “after COVID-19”.

    CANADIAN COVID-19 ANNOUNCEMENTS

    > Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan Details on support for individuals and businesses.

    > Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy Update

    Last week, the Government of Canada announced an up to 75 per cent wage subsidy for qualifying businesses to help them keep and return workers to the payroll. Yesterday, the Prime Minister of Canada announced further flexibility for employers to access the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy. For the period from March 15 to April 11, 2020, as many closed their doors mid-month, organizations will not have to show a 30% decrease in revenue, but rather a 15% decrease. For more information see the government’s backgrounder on this topic. The Prime Minister also noted yesterday that not-for-profit organizations and charities have the option to include or exclude government funding in the calculations of their revenue loss.

    CASC ADVOCACY EFFORTS

    > CASC will participate in a HERITAGE PANEL — April 16, 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. ET as part of the Canadian Museum Association’s online conference Museums Together.

    This panel discussion will involve the National Trust of Canada, the Alliance of Natural History Museums of Canada, the Canadian Art Museum Directors Organization, the Canadian Association of Science Centres and Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums. Hear these organizations share common concerns and challenges and explore what can be done by working together.

    CONNECTING MEMBERS

    > Video Discussion Groups

    Topic: Supporting Teachers/School Closures Chat

    Apr 17, 2020 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

    An invitation to join the scheduled Friday calls has been extended to all CASC member staff working in programs, education, outreach, camps and childcare. An email with an invitation will be sent via email. Please contact info@casc-accs.com if you did not receive an invitation and would like to join

    Topic: CEO Discussion Forum

    Apr 17, 2020 2:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) 

    CASC will continue coordinating a "CASC COVID-19 Response Discussion" for CASC Member CEOs and Executive Directors. An email with an invitation will be sent via email. 

    As we all continue to navigate this rapidly-evolving global situation, CASC is here to help, support, and connect our community during these challenging times. Please contact us at info@casc-accs.com if you have ideas for how we can further support your organization.

    NEWS FROM OUR NETWORK

    > CASC Members Helping and Thanking Health Care Providers

    We want to acknowledge and thank CASC members who are supporting health care providers face this global pandemic. A few examples of science centres and museums stepping up include:

    Ingenium: Blog: Three things you should know about COVID-19

    Science North: is 3D printing visors for health care workers at Health Sciences North.

    Thanking health care workers:

    Ingenium: 3 museums salute them by lighting up our Lighthouse and the Canada Science and Technology Museum in blue.

    Toronto Zoo: Thanking front-line workers on World Health Day 

      > CASC Members Sharing Online Educational Content

      Canadian science centres and science museums are supporting families by offering free online educational content. The "What our Sector is Doing" page on the CASC website is updated on a regular basis so that CASC members can see what each other are doing. We encourage you to share on your social media platforms and with your network using the following #AtHomeWithCASC  #ScienceChampions #LookForTheHelpers #ScienceAtHome. Here a just a few examples of what our members are doing:

      Churchill Northern Studies Centre Check out the live Aurora cam hosted by explore.org and Polar Bears International. This camera is located at Churchill Northern Studies Centre so you can see the Northern lights live.

      Montreal Science Centre is influencing their followers online through a “SPREAD THE MOVEMENT NOT THE VIRUS #CHALLENGE!” 

      Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum and #ArchosaurAprilAbsurdity

      Science Timmins and their many STEM hands on activities and challenges.

      TELUS World Of Science Edmonton and Alan’s Science at Home Facebook Live Series.

      ANNOUNCEMENT FROM COMMUNITY COLLABORATORS

      > Canadian Museum Association (CMA)

      CMA has organized Museums Together, a free, one-day, virtual event to discuss some of the key issues facing Canada’s museums today.

      April 16th, 11:00 am EST

      >The Conference Board of Canada

      On behalf of the Future Skills Centre, The Conference Board of Canada is researching leading practices in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education for Indigenous learners in Canada. As part of this research, they are looking at STEM outreach programs for Indigenous youth across Canada. As a participant of the survey, you will be among the first to receive the free report. To have your program represented, please complete the survey by Tuesday, April 21, 2020.

      Survey link: STEM Outreach Programs for Indigenous Learners


    • CASC COVID-19 Update: We are here to support you.

      Thursday, April 02, 2020 4:32 PM | Deleted user

      April 2, 2020


      As we all continue to navigate this rapidly-evolving global situation, CASC is here to support you in advocacy efforts to the Government of Canada, sharing helpful resources, amplifying science communication offerings of our members, and connecting our community.

      CANADIAN COVID-19 ANNOUNCEMENTS

      > The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy 

      On April 1, 2020, Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, proposed the new Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy. This would provide a 75 per cent wage subsidy to eligible employers for up to 12 weeks, retroactive to March 15, 2020. Details available here.

      > CBC Explainer: What you need to know about the new COVID-19 emergency wage subsidy

      > Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan Details on support for individuals and businesses.

      > COVID-19 Resources Canada Portal

      A team of dedicated Canadian scientists and researchers have put together a portal to help locate resources, expertise, reagents and equipment in Canada related to COVID-19. You can also lookup volunteer opportunities.

      CONNECTING MEMBERS

      > Science Centres & Museums Zoom Call

      Topic: Supporting Teachers/School Closures Chat

      Apr 3, 2020 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

      Here at CASC we are exploring ways to help all CASC members connect with each other for support during the COVID-19 pandemic. A group of CASC member education and programming staff have been meeting up via ZOOM to discuss ways in which CASC members can collectively come together to assist parents and educators with informal STEM engagement while practicing physical isolation at their homes.

      An invitation to join the scheduled Friday calls has been extended to all CASC member staff working in programs, education, outreach, camps and childcare. An email with an invitation to the meeting was sent out yesterday (April 1, 2020). Please contact info@casc-accs.com if you did not receive an invitation and would like to join.

      > Planning for Your Exhibition in a Crisis - Part 2

      COVID-19 Support for Touring Exhibitions & Museums: Video Call -  Webinar/Google Hangout

      CASC Affiliate Member, Shipping Monster/Storage Monster convened a google hangout discussion last week to specifically address challenges related to travelling exhibitions during the COVID-19 crisis. Their initial discussion included 30 people from across the world and they’ve extended an invitation to CASC members to join the next call.

      Wed Apr 8, 2020 2pm – 3pm Eastern Time. Will be hosted every 2 weeks. 

      An email with the link to the meeting will be sent to sales and exhibition contacts in the CASC network by Monday April 6, 2020. Please contact robert@theshippingmonster.com if you did not receive an invitation and would like to join.

      They have also created a LinkedIn Group, COVID-19 Support for Touring Exhibitions & Museums, because of the need to share information, news, and thought knowledge between museums and peers.  Join here.

      > Future CASC Community Discussions

      We’ve heard from numerous members that they’d like CASC to provide access to virtual community discussions so they can connect with peers during this challenging time. CASC is working on launching a variety of scheduled group video chats that will be open to our members including a CEO Forum. These invitations will go out through our contact list. If you have a colleague who has not yet signed up to our newsletter, please share this link with them so that they will receive the invitation to join the group chat.

      NEWS FROM OUR NETWORK

      > CASC Members Helping Health Care Providers

      We want to acknowledge and thank CASC members who are helping health care providers face this global pandemic. A few examples of science centres and museums stepping up include:

      Donating gloves and other protective gear:

      Ontario Science Centre donated over 16,000 pairs of gloves and other protective gear to health care workers.


      > CASC Members Sharing Online Educational Content: NEW live calendar!

      Canadian science centres and science museums are supporting families by offering free online educational content . The "What our Sector is Doing" page on the CASC website is updated on a regular basis so that CASC members can see what each other are doing. Please have a look here. We’ve updated this page with a calendar of scheduled online events. Please email paquette@casc-accs.com if you would like your event added to the calendar.

      We encourage you to share on your social media platforms and with your network using the following #AtHomeWithCASC  #ScienceChampions #LookForTheHelpers #ScienceAtHome.

      ANNOUNCEMENT FROM COMMUNITY COLLABORATORS

      > The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) has made online resources for the Junior Astronaut program available to everyone. The registration period for youth to have a chance to win a spot to the CSA Junior Astronaut Camp is extended until April 30, 2020. The CSA also made changes to the process to make it easier for families to run the activities and complete applications. The details can be found on the registration page.

      > Astronauts David Saint-Jacques (in French) and Jeremy Hansen (in English) Live YouTube event. Sunday, April 5

      Young Canadians can ask questions about space and isolation to astronauts David Saint-Jacques (in French) and Jeremy Hansen (in English). The deadline for youth to send questions for David or Jeremy is this Friday, April 3, at noon (ET). The link will be posted on the CSA’s social media accounts in the coming days.

      In English: Twitter   Facebook   Instagram

      In French: Twitter   Facebook   Instagram

      > Canadian Science Policy Centre - Call for Editorials: Response to COVID-19 Pandemic and its Impacts.

      As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to change our lives and policies, CSPC seeks to collect insights from Canadian leaders, both established and emerging; on the long-lasting impacts of this global health challenge. Confirm intent by April 3. First submission deadline: April 17th.

      > NSERC Alliance COVID19 Grants

      NSERC is providing up to $15 million in total support to stimulate collaborations between academic researchers and the public and not-for-profit sectors, and industry to address pandemic-related research and technical challenges.

      • CASC COVID-19 Update: We will get through this together.

        Friday, March 27, 2020 1:07 PM | Deleted user


        March 27, 2020

        We know these are difficult times and there is no doubt that the next while will be challenging for all. As we continue to navigate this rapidly-evolving global situation, CASC is here to support you in advocacy efforts to the Government of Canada, sharing helpful resources, amplifying science communication offerings of our members, and connecting our community.

        We will get through this together.

        We aim to provide weekly e-newsletters with links to useful resources to help you and your organization navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and provide updates about what CASC and our members are doing. 

        For up-to-date information on CASC Member COVID-19 Support and COVID-19 development across Canada click here. 

        CONNECTING MEMBERS

        We are listening - connecting CASC members with each other.

        Our office is exploring ways to help CASC members connect with each other for support during the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve heard from numerous members that they’d like CASC to provide access to virtual community discussions so they can connect with peers during this challenging time. CASC is working on launching a variety of scheduled group video chats that will be open to our members. These invitations will go out through our contact list. If you have a colleague who has not yet signed up to our newsletter, please share this link with them so that they will receive the invitation to join the group chat.

        SERVING THE CASC NETWORK

        Advocating for relief funding for our sector and for raising awareness of the critical role our sector can play in science education as many school boards transition to online learning.

        Our Board members have already been ‘making the case’ to key decision-makers at the Federal government level, emphasizing the important role science centres and museums play in the cultural fabric of our communities and their local economy. CASC will be providing a statement and briefing documents to key decision-makers in the coming days and weeks.

        Sharing your online educational content and analyzing collective impact!

        Canadian science centres and science museums are supporting families by offering free online educational content. Our collective impact includes:

        • A reach of over 1.35 million accounts on social media, a number that will surely grow over the upcoming weeks and months.
        • Families tuning in to your live videos and sharing with their networks.
        • Your educational resources getting into the hands of teachers and educators across the country.
        • Your pre-recorded demos and programmed live episodes effectively engaging your audience who miss visiting your centre in person.
        • See the entire list of content CASC members are sharing with the public here! If we've missed something send a note to paquette@casc-accs.com.


        CASC Affiliate members are also stepping up and offering their services to our network. 

        In these challenging times, many companies who serve science centres and museums have offered to support and resources that may be useful to these institutions. Send CASC a note at info@casc-accs.com if you’d like to get your information out to our network.

        If there are additional ways that CASC can support you, please do not hesitate to email us directly at info@casc-accs.com.

        QUESTIONS ABOUT CANADIAN COVID-19 SUPPORT? 

        Economic and financial support

        To learn more about Canada’s actions to help Canadians and businesses facing hardship as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, refer to Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan.

        QUICK LINKS

        Individuals

        Businesses

        Canada Public Health Resources

        #PhysicalDistancingis the new #SocialDistancing! 
        Together, we can slow the spread of COVID-19 by making a conscious effort to keep a physical distance between each other.  Social distancing is proven to be one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of illness during an outbreak. With patience and cooperation, we can all do our part. Click here to learn more. 

        Think you might have symptoms? Take the self-assessment test!


      • Invitation to Affiliate Supporters: We'd like to share your COVID-19 resources

        Friday, March 27, 2020 1:00 PM | Deleted user


        March 25, 2020

        We hope everyone is staying safe and healthy. We know that the past week has been a whirlwind for all of us.  Here at CASC, we have profound hope in our collective action. Together, we all have a role to play in confronting this global pandemic.

        We've added a page on our website for our members and supporters to help share their COVID-19 related initiatives. Please have a look here. 

        Though much of the content is science engagement programming from our member science centres and museums, we’d also like to share any services you may be providing to address COVID-19 related challenges that our sector may be facing.

        Please send any resources or information to info@casc-accs.com.

        Thank you,

        CASC 


      • CASC COVID-19 Update: Message from the Executive Director

        Friday, March 27, 2020 12:56 PM | Deleted user


        March 20, 2020

        We know that the past week has been a whirlwind for all of us.

        The closure of schools, science centres and museums, international border restrictions, and new social distancing measures have understandably created challenges and uncertainty. However, these are necessary steps to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. And, they are only the beginning. 

        Together, we all have a role to play in confronting this global pandemic.

        Here at CASC, we have profound hope in our collective action. Never in the history of the world have we ever seen such clear alignment and demonstration of what we are capable of. 

        Our sector is stepping up.  CASC members are showing leadership in a big way. Our hearts are warmed by the outpouring of support of our sector through:

        • Modelling and promoting effective measures by closing our doors, promoting social distancing, and sharing accurate information from public health authorities. Science Centres and Science Museums are amongst the most trusted sources of information for the public and our audiences rely on us professional science communicators for reliable information, critical in a pandemic crisis. 

        • Supporting families through offering free online educational content for youth and guardians who are now facing home-schooling options. During this difficult time, many CASC members are working tirelessly to provide quality science-at-home activities, kits, videos, and resources to their audiences - free of charge. This is helping parents and guardians ease their concerns and prepare for the uncertain times ahead. We are beginning to catalogue your activities and making them available to the public on our CASC website so that you can be inspired by these resources and share them across communities. Please share your online resources with us at info@casc-accs.com.

        • Being community hubs. Even though the doors are closed, many CASC members are maintaining their community support from continuing planned initiatives like donating 4000 lbs of food to the Sudbury Food Bank to sharing resources to help with anxiety. Our sector cares and every act of kindness and compassion helps build stronger communities.  If there are actions you are taking to serve your community that we might share, please let us know at info@casc-accs.com.

        We also wanted to let you know that CASC is here for you. Our commitment over the coming weeks and months is to:  

        • Advocate for relief funding for our sector, to help staff stay employed and to invest in the online platforms that can help our members inform Canadians. Our sector employs the best professional science communicators across the country and relies on funds generated through programs and ticket sales. Collectively these organizations reach 8 million people across Canada in person each year and reach this audience through 1.35 million accounts on social media, a number that will surely grow over the upcoming weeks and months. Our sharing of accurate, reliable information has a significant impact. The Prime Minister of Canada announced a stimulus package on March 18 of up to $82 billion to help mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on individuals and businesses in Canada, including business support such as tax deferrals and wage subsidy to a maximum of $25,000 per employer, but this support is not enough for our sector. Trudeau was very clear that these measures are not exhaustive and more initiatives will follow. 

        • Advocate for creative science learning solutions that leverage our network of science and innovation engagement leaders. As a ‘new normal’ emerges for youth education over the next few weeks and months, our sector is positioned to play a critical role in a holistic and hands-on approach to science learning. Our members bridge formal and informal science learning environments. Over 90% of our science centres and science museums members have school programs, over 75% offer outreach and community engagement within local and regional communities and we have a strong online presence. How can our sector help and work with school boards to create holistic approaches to experiential science learning?

        • Share helpful resources during the COVID-19 pandemic. We will provide more regular e-newsletters with links to useful resources to help you and your organization navigate the pandemic and provide updates about what CASC members are doing. Please see our web page for current listings.

        In a time of global change, CASC is a foundational network that can be leveraged to empower collective action across intergenerational audiences. Thank you for all that you are doing in this challenging time. Together we are stronger.

        If you need any support or have ideas for how CASC can be a resource for you and your organization in the days and weeks ahead, reach out to us at info@casc-accs.com. We hope you take time to care for yourselves, your colleagues, your families, and your loved ones. 

        Sincerely,

        Marianne Mader

        Executive Director, CASC

        mader@casc-accs.com


      • CASC 2020 Conference Rescheduled

        Friday, March 27, 2020 12:53 PM | Deleted user


        CASC 2020 Conference will be Rescheduled

        Canadian Association of Science Centres – Rescheduling 2020 Conference in Ottawa

        Sudbury, ON. March 13, 2020 – The Canadian Association of Science Centres (CASC) 2020 Conference, hosted by Ingenium: Canada's Museums of Science and Innovation in Ottawa, ON from May 27-29, 2020 will be rescheduled.

        This rescheduling is in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, as several provincial health authorities are recommending to not host gatherings of more than 250 people and new recommendations are being made daily. 

        “The safety of our members and our community are of paramount importance. We do not make this decision to reschedule our conference lightly but believe strongly in responsibly serving the community and this is the best way to do so,” said Tracy Calogheros, CASC Board President and CEO at The Exploration Place Museum + Science Centre.

        CASC is developing a conference rescheduling contingency plan to be released soon. Our AGM and CASCADE Awards will continue, however, likely in a virtual format. Dates have not yet been determined but will be released as they are confirmed. Please check our website and our social media channels for updates.

        As leaders of the science conversation, CASC needs to responsibly serve our national network. We apologize for the inconvenience this will cause for some but believe that this will help prevent the spread of COVID-19. We recommend you keep informed with reliable sources for additional information such as the Public Health Agency of Canada.

        -30-


      • CASC Member Support for COVID-19

        Friday, March 27, 2020 12:45 PM | Deleted user


        March 6, 2020

        Dear CASC-Member Chief Executives:  

        We have heard from many of our members who are working to respond and prepare for the outbreak of COVID-19 coronavirus disease. As of March 5, 2020, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has assessed the public health risk associated with COVID-19 as low for Canada. They will continue to reassess the public health risk as new information becomes available.

        CASC is committed to sharing information to our network to assist with your efforts to provide a safe and healthy environment for your visitors and staff and to help prepare for any potential disruption to your business and operations that may be caused by the COVID-19 epidemic. CASC has created a dedicated coronavirus information page on our website. It includes links to resources to help stay up-to-date, guidance for workplaces, and additional information on COVID-19.

        We would also like to provide links to CASC member preparation plans and statements that are publically available. Please send us a copy of your plans/statements or the weblink to info@casc-accs.org to share with our network. Our colleagues at ASTC have also created an open-access, General Forum where science centres and science museums can share information about the steps they are taking related to COVID-19 and pose questions to other sector professionals. They’ve extended an invitation for all CASC members to use this Forum as well - registration is free. In addition, CASC is forming a COVID-19 Task Force to help monitor the situation and facilitate sharing of information among the CASC network, including preparation plans and lessons learned. 

        CASC is here to serve and assist you in any way we can. If you have any questions, please contact me or Marianne Mader, Executive Director CASC (mader@casc-accs.com), at any time.

        Sincerely,

        Tracy Calogheros

        CASC Board President

        Tracy.Calogheros@theexplorationplace.com


      • You can test the science of your favourite superheroes at this EXTRAORDINARY science event in Vancouver

        Friday, March 06, 2020 10:25 AM | Deleted user


        Could gamma-ray exposure give anyone super strength?

        Would superpowers change if our heroes landed on different planets in our solar system?
        Is any of this really possible?!

        H.R. MacMillan Space Centre will explore these questions and more with kid-friendly science during their first family night of the new year. Science of Superheroes, which takes place from 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm on February 29th, will feature live demonstrations, a show in the Planetarium Star Theatre, fun superhero crafts and the opportunity to look at the night sky through the Space Centre’s giant telescope (weather permitting).

        Read More


      Canadian Association of Science Centres

      #1203-130 Albert St. 

      Ottawa, ON. K1P 5G4

      info@casc-accs.com

      The CASC office is situated in Robinson Huron Treaty territory and the traditional territory of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek. We pay respect to their traditions, ways of knowing and acknowledge their many contributions to the innovations in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Clearly and overtly this gratitude must be demonstrated in our collective commitment to truth and reconciliation, by working to transform existing relationships, with open dialogue, mutual understanding and respectful collaborations

       site map | privacy policy | terms of use

      ©2022 Canadian Association of Science Centres