Together, we can create a world without barriers, where accessibility and inclusion are built in, not added on. People of all abilities are welcomed and empowered. Participation is possible for everyone, and belonging is a given.
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Health & wellbeing flourish with participation in everyday life.
Our mission is to address unmet needs of people, particularly those with disabilities, by advancing inclusion and accessibility provincially, nationally, and internationally.
Only 59% of Canadians with disabilities are employed, versus 80% without. Barriers in education, health, and inclusion limit opportunities and deepen inequities. Canada loses an estimated $16.8 billion annually due to disability underemployment.
Conference Board of Canada. (2018), Employment and Social Development Canada. (2018), Government of Canada. (2022).
We are committed to transforming the physical, digital, and socio-cultural environments that shape the lives of people living with a barrier or disability. We work with all ages and abilities, designing solutions on our pillars of employment, education, and health & wellbeing, that adapt to individuals’ evolving needs to promote access, inclusion, and independence.
2,764 technologies delivered to individuals with disabilities
3,727 youth and adults benefited from technology solutions
20,000+ downloads of CanAssist software applications
630 individuals secured meaningful employment with 75% success rate
Secured 7,500 licenses for the CanWork BC youth tool
8,000 early learning and care professional trainings delivered
We’re committed to removing barriers and providing support so individuals with disabilities can access learning at every life stage, while working to shift mindsets by embedding disability education in schools and communities.
– Educator
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A system-wide approach to inclusion
Understanding children's behaviours as a community
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Employment support for youth with disabilities
We drive long-term success by working at every level, from meeting individual needs with training and assistive technology to tackling systemic barriers through partnerships with employers, educators, service providers, and policymakers.
– John, Canassist participant
Custom assistive tech to help people work
Resources to support hiring youth with disabilities
Personalized job coaching and placements
Living a meaningful life includes creativity, connection, nature, and everyday moments, and at the heart of all CanAssist initiatives is a deep commitment to mental health and overall wellbeing.
– Gerard, CanAssist client
Pedal-controlled accessible instrument
A selection of CanAssist technology videos
Innovative horse simulator for riders with disabilities
Support 5,000 individuals in securing employment
Reach 5,000 individuals through education initiatives
Expand and scale programs reaching 5,000 participants
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We prioritize a person-centered approach, learning from the community, building lasting partnerships, while promoting self-determination, autonomy, and participation.
We commit to an intersectional approach, celebrating diverse identities, experiences, and backgrounds. We foster inclusion and create environments where everyone has equitable opportunities and support to succeed.
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We develop distinct and effective responses to unmet need, problem-solving and enabling creative, practical approaches. We embrace continuous learning, self-reflection, and positive change.
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We lead by example, with care, curiosity, understanding, and openness. We ensure long-term growth and financial stability to continue our mission.
CanAssist improves the physical, digital, and socio-cultural spaces where people live, learn, work, and connect by designing barrier-free environments, developing assistive technologies, and promoting inclusive mindsets, policies, and practices.
Bringing people together to share their knowledge, experience, and perspectives.
Providing a platform for all voices to be heard and shared.
Researching and analyzing current and past landscapes to bring ideas together and address gaps.
Unifying diverse perspectives to make ideas and programs accessible for everyone.
CanAssist’s Strategic Plan and Case for Support outline our path forward to build a barrier-free world, where people of all abilities can thrive. Learn how your involvement can help create lasting change in employment, education, and health & wellbeing.
Our roadmap to a world without barriers, where all people can meaningfully participate and belong.
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Four infographics explaining why your contribution matters.
With your support we can empower children, youth, adults, and seniors with disabilities to thrive in work, learning, and life.
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