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About Us

For more than 35 years, AboutFace has been supporting the facial difference community in Canada.

Our mission is to promote and enhance the emotional and mental well-being of individuals with facial differences and their families through social and peer support, information, educational programs and public awareness. To do this, we work with other stakeholders: volunteers; donors; allies in the medical, dental, and social service communities; educators; and others.

While each facial difference is unique and affects each person in various ways, people with facial differences share similar experiences in day-to-day life that can include:

  • Being stared at, ridiculed, bullied, or socially excluded
  • Encountering stereotypes, discrimination, and barriers to socialization, education, employment, and aspirations.

Without psychosocial support, the impact of these challenges on a person’s mental health and quality of life can be severe and lasting.

AboutFace was founded in 1985 to provide that support to members of the facial difference community across the country and to address  barriers and misconceptions by building awareness and acceptance of facial differences. AboutFace is the only charity in Canada supporting individuals of every age, with any type of facial difference and their families.

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Our work focuses on three core values:

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EMPOWERMENT

Building on strength and character helps develop our sense of purpose.

By offering programs and services like youth camps, adult workshops and retreats, we help people with facial differences gain self-confidence, learn essential life, social and leadership skills, and experience personal enrichment and a sense of empowerment by being connected to a valuable and relatable community.

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ENCOURAGEMENT

Knowing you are not alone is the first step in embracing the journey. AboutFace offers support and encouragement through discussion groups, peer support, and networking opportunities.

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EDUCATION

Education is critical to nurturing understanding and acceptance. We believe the most effective way to promote inclusion and diversity is through early education in the school community, in the workplace, on the internet, and in the media.