CAN Collaborators

Abilities Centre is a charitable organization that delivers enriching sports and fitness, arts, research and education, and life skills opportunities for people of all ages and abilities.

Ability NB is a non-profit organization who’s mission is to empower the independence and full community participation of persons throughout New Brunswick who have a mobility disability. Our Accessible NB program aims to increase the accessible, universally designed workplaces throughout New Brunswick to enhance the employability of persons with a disability. The program offers a provincial accessibility review service for employers.

ABLE2 is a not-for-profit charitable organization that creates opportunities for people with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives by supporting them with programs and services. Canadians who have a disability face many barriers to society, including stigma, discrimination, poverty, exclusion from education and employment, and inequities in the health care and legal systems. ABLE2 believes in an inclusive community where all people are seen as able, respected, and valued. The programs and services empower persons of all ages across the disability spectrum and their families to build lives of meaning and joy as valued members of our community. 

The Aboriginal Apprenticeship Board of Ontario was founded on research indicating the challenges and barriers that Indigenous youth and their communities face with equitable access to training and employment in the skilled trades through apprenticeship. We are composed of Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy (ASETS) holders to whom the Board is ultimately responsible. The Board works in conjunction with a Partnership Advisory Committee comprised of industry and government representation. Our partners and collaborators are national in scope and 4 years ago we began our national expansion. 

Indigenous people are more likely to suffer from invisible mental health related concerns due to the intersectional and intergenerational trauma handed from one generation to the next. Any and all assistance and recognition that can be offered to identify and overcome accessibility issues for Indigenous people will only serve to improve opportunities for their success. We bring an Indigenous perspective and input to the necessary work being conducted by CAN.  

Accessibrand™ is a collective of design, marketing and communications professionals whose lives have been impacted by disability. Our agency approaches every project with accessibility as our top priority. We have lived and proven experience.

Accessibil-IT is a digital document accessibility service provider committed to ensuring communications are accessible for people who have visual or cognitive disabilities. Accessibil-IT is fully conversant and compliant with all relevant legislation and standards including The Accessible Canada Act, AODA, WCAG, ISO 14289 (PDF/UA). Services include remediation of PDF and Microsoft Office documents. We also provide document accessibility strategy development and WCAG 2.0/1 reviews for companies and organizations who want to be confident their documents have been designed to meet design accessibility standards. Accessibil-IT’s services are tested using a combination of manual control testing as well as use of industry standards testing tools and popular screen reader technologies. It is important to us that adaptive technology users have excellent user experience, meaning they can navigate the document and hear all content accurately. 

Adaptability Canada (ADC) is the leading national provider of commercial accessibility related equipment and solutions for the public, private and non-profit sector organizations who manage large portfolios of real estate. From ordering equipment for staff to installation and ongoing maintenance, Adaptability Canada will help meet the need.

Ai-Media‘s expert services provide an additional level of inclusion and access during events, guaranteeing the entire audience’s equal participation.

Changing Lives. Dedication to student success is Algonquin College‘s guiding principle and is demonstrated through the quality of its programs, staff, the continual expansion of its facilities, and by forging strategic partnerships.

Allied Therapy is based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. We offer remote and home based Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Applied Behaviour Analysis, and Physiotherapy services across the province. It is a privilege to serve Nova Scotia by providing collaborative evidence-based assessment and intervention. 

The Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC), is a grassroots peer support advocacy organization of the blind, deaf blind and partially sighted, and has been advocating for our rights and equal access since 1992. We raise awareness through public education and government consultations on election, transportation, education and communication access issues. We advise on equity and inclusion when new programs, policies and systems are developed. We partner with other community organizations to engage the wider disability community. As volunteers, we donate our time, skills and efforts to amplify our voice to train and educate the public on diversity and inclusion. Toronto chapter members successfully advocated for the Ontario government Photo ID card for non-drivers, and for accessible federal government websites. Currently, we are hosting a series of workshops and information sessions on accessible customer service, web accessibility, accessible education and equitable employment.

“As one door closes, another opens.” AnaLori is an experienced analyst with expertise in advancing equity and inclusion. She has specializing knowledge and skills in understanding accessibility and communicating effectively how to remove barriers to accessibility in employment, the built environment, the design and delivery of programs and services, as well as information and communications technology. AnaLori has advanced writing and editing skills, and a proven history of clear and effective communication. AnaLori is a highly skilled public speaker who has successfully coordinated and planned multiple projects while promoting community engagement in academic, occupational and violunteer settings. AnaLori believes CAN is the perfect opportunity to share her expertise as the Co-Chair of the Accessibility Network at the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat. She hopes to contribute her insight into best practices in inclusion from an accessibility lens. 

Andrew is a legally blind lawyer and senior policy advisor working with the Treasury Board Secretariat with the Ontario Government. Previously he led the review of the Accessible Information and Communications Standard under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), indeed I have consulted with other jurisdictions and am considered a subject matter expert on human rights, employment accommodation and accessibility best practices. 

For over 40 years ARBI has provided outpatient rehabilitation and community integration programming for individuals with an acquired brain injury. Our onsite program provides intensive neuro-rehabilitation delivered by OT, PT, SLP, RT, social work and psychology. We offer group and one-to-one opportunities for engagement in meaningful recreational pursuits through our community integration program as well as single-discipline intervention through our outreach program. Unique to ARBI, we integrate our valued volunteers into the delivery of our programs. Evident in the approach we take every day for every client is our vision that each client lives their best life possible.

Autism Alliance of Canada (formerly formerly Canadian Autism Spectrum Disorder Alliance (CASDA)) coordinates national conversations about autism – bringing community voices to the federal government to guide their development of a National Autism Strategy.

BDO Canada is a member firm of the International BDO Network, providing assurance, accounting, tax, and advisory services to a broad range of clients across the country. It aims to create a collaborative working environment that makes it possible for its professionals and clients to achieve their goals.

Calgary and region’s largest Comprehensive Community College – with 17,500 full – and part-time students, Bow Valley College is a leader in business, health, community studies, technology, adult upgrading and English Language Learning. We provide career programming that will develop the skills and confidence you need to get a job in the most in-demand industries in Calgary, Alberta and Canada. In Alberta, Bow Valley College is a leader in the Disability Sector in supporting training and development through the Disability Studies certificate and Diploma programs. 

At Branching Out it is our daily responsibility and joy to serve people who have neurodiversity’s and their families. We do this with community, choice and creativity. We are committed to extensive care solutions, recreation, and social programming, 1:1 support and day programming. The Team at Branching Out Support Services aims to offer the highest quality services to families in Dufferin County and beyond. We know this starts with value-based leadership, team work and a dedication to putting people first. 

Bruyère Continuing Care is a multi-site academic health care organization that is maximizing quality of life and helping people stay and return home. We deliver a wide variety of services in aging and rehabilitation, medically complex, palliative, residential and primary care.

The Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER) is a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization bringing together Canada’s largest companies and leading post-secondary institutions. Since 2015, BHER has worked to harness the strengths of Canada’s business and post-secondary education sectors to build opportunities for young Canadians, boost innovation and drive collaboration. Canada’s business and post-secondary leaders face many challenges. Working together to solve these challenges is more critical than ever and will strengthen Canada’s economy along the way. BHER’s role is a convener and connector, bringing together to create a thriving Canada where everyone has an opportunity to reach their potential.  

More info about the Canada Revenue Agency coming soon!

Canadian Assistive Technology is a distributor and retailer of assistive technologies for people who are blind, visually impaired, physically disabled or who have cognitive impairment or communication disorders. Our goal is to provide the highest level of service and support for our customers.  

We are a leader in finding new and innovative assistive technologies from new developers around the world for introduction to the Canadian market. We provide a high level of support, service and training for our clients. Any new major product purchase comes with a free one-hour training session. We offer a 30-day return policy on most of our products to help ensure the right fit for our customers.  

Our markets include K-12 education, post-secondary education, direct to consumer, many government programs providing workplace services. We have also begun shopping for a new location for a low vision focused retail location which will showcase products from optical magnifiers to high-end video-based magnification technologies. Our vision is to prove the Low Vision retail store concept and then to expand with additional locations across the country. 

Canadian Assistive Technology provides a number of online services including training webinars in conjunction with our suppliers, accessible remote support and one-on-one training via Pneuma Solutions new Remote Incident Manager platform. 

Our ever-growing product line is showcased on our website at www.canasstech.com. We also produce the AT Banter podcast, where we talk with advocates and members of the disability community to help educate and inspire better conversations about disability. The podcast has more than 300 episodes which can be found on all podcast platforms or on our website at www.atbanter.com.  

Since 1925, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has connected businesses of all sizes, from all sectors and from all regions of the country to advocate for public policies that will foster a strong, competitive economic environment that benefits businesses, communities and families across Canada.

The CCRW has a mission to help people with disabilities break down barriers to employment. We give job seekers the tools and confidence to educate and market themselves; we help them refine and demonstrate their abilities. We help employers become leaders in socially and fiscally responsible hiring and retention practices. It is important to us that employers understand the business case for hiring qualified employees with disabilities.

The Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association – the national voice for hospice palliative care in Canada – is dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in care for persons approaching death so that the burdens of suffering, loneliness and grief are lessened. The CHPCA operated in close partnership with other national organizations and continues to work to ensure that all Canadians, regardless of where they may live, have equal access to quality hospice palliative care services for themselves and their family. 

Capco, a Wipro company, is a global technology and management consultancy specializing in driving digital transformation in the financial services industry. With a growing client portfolio comprising of over 100 global organizations, Capco operates at the intersection of business and technology by combining innovative thinking with unrivalled industry knowledge to fast-track digital initiatives for banking and payments, capital markets, wealth and asset management, insurance, and the energy sector. Capco’s cutting-edge ingenuity is brought to life through its award-winning Be Yourself At Work culture and diverse talent.

Canada’s Capital University, Carleton University is a dynamic research and teaching institution dedicated to achieving the highest standards of scholarship.

The Centre for Equitable Library Access, CELA, is a national not-for-profit organization providing accessible reading services to the approximately 3 million people across Canada with print disabilities. CELA offers access to a collection of over 1 million titles in multiple accessible formats, including audio, braille, print braille and e-text. Our services ensure that people with print disabilities across the country are more able to fully participate in learning, work and community life and contribute to the social, cultural and economic development and success of their local communities and Canada as a whole.

Being the Capital City of Canada and a municipal government, the City of Ottawa services and programs directly impact the health and wellbeing of residents with disabilities every day. We strive to meet the obligations of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities and to continually make the City of Ottawa a more accessible city for all. The City’s Accessibility Office is at the heart of the City’s accessibility success and works collectively with the City’s Accessibility Advisory Committee, the Accessibility Working Group, other Ontario municipalities through the Ontario Network of Accessibility Professionals Council and residents with disabilities to develop the City’s multi-year accessibility plan. We believe that the City has a lot to offer a group like the Canadian Accessibility Network and would also learn a lot as well from the group. We believe that we are stronger together and that together we can make Canada more accessible for all residents and visitors.

Community Futures Manitoba represents 16 Community Futures organizations established throughout rural and northern Manitoba. The goal of each Community Futures is to assist the communities in their region to develop their economic potential through entrepreneurship. One of the programs Community Futures offices deliver is the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP). The EDP program assists entrepreneurs with health conditions or disabilities through all stages of their business development from startup to succession planning.

Founded in 1918, the CNIB Foundation is a non-profit organization driven to change what it is to be blind today. We deliver innovative programs and powerful advocacy that empower people impacted by blindness to live their dreams and tear down barriers to inclusion. Our work as a blind foundation is powered by a network for volunteers, donors and partners from coast to coast to coast. 

Cynthia is a blind woman, researcher, educator and activist with a deep interest in advancing accessibility with a particular focus on education and health. Her current academic work focuses significantly on knowledge mobilization, and she has recently enacted this commitment through her work on the Nova Scotia Accessibility Advisory Board and as Vice-Chair of the Education Standard Development Committee. She currently serves on the Teaching and Learning Accessibility Advisory Committee at Concordia and has two grant applications submitted that focus on mobilizing the lived knowledge of disabled Canadians in the areas of post-COVID higher education and the creative arts therapies. Her work is grounded in a commitment to advancing accessibility through interdisciplinary collaboration, and the Canadian Accessibility Network provides a rich pan-Canadian opportunity to network with scholars, activists, and service-providers to advance accessibility in substantive and progressive ways. 

Located in Nova Scotia on Canada’s East Coast, with campuses in the vibrant oceanside city of Halifax and an Agricultural Campus in the town of Truro, Dalhousie welcomes 21,000 students who join us from more than 115 countries around the world.

Our 13 faculties expand understanding through teaching excellence and a drive for discovery that results in $214  million in external research funding each year. As Atlantic Canada’s leading research-intensive university and a member of the U15 group of Canadian universities, our research and innovation strength support world-leading researchers dedicated to driving our positive impact on society.

Danielle is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Educational Policy Studies at the University of Alberta and the social media editor for the Canadian Journal of Disability Studies.  

DeafBlind Ontario Services supports people who are deafblind, as well as people who are Deaf, hard of hearing and non-verbal with a developmental disability. Specialized services are customized to each person’s unique needs, method of communication, and goals to live their best life. On April 1st 2021, DeafBlind Ontario Services officially amalgamated with Array Services to enhance specialized services for people who are Deaf, hard-of-hearing, non-verbal and deafblind across Ontario. By coming together as one as DeafBlind Ontario Services, we have been able to increase capacity, serve more people and use resources more effectively. Our combined expertise in serving those who are Deaf, hard of hearing, non-verbal and deafblind is a natural fit. 

Since 1977, Disability Alliance BC has been a provincial, cross-disability voice in British Columbia. Our mission is to support people, with all disabilities, to live with dignity, independence and as equal and full participants in the community. We champion issues impacting the lives of people with disabilities through our direct services, community partnerships, advocacy, research and publications. 

D2L‘s technology is currently being used by customers in K-12, higher education, healthcare, government, and the enterprise sector. In nineteen years, our team has grown to include over 750 employees around the world.

The Disability Foundation is a charity that helps people with physical disabilities to feel empowered and inspired to redefine possibility. Find out about accessible activities including sailing, hiking, paddling, gardening, music and innovative solutions that help overcome barriers to accessibility.

Distinctability is an innovative social purpose employment support service provider that provides technology and people-focused solutions for employment, education, and life that help leverage the skills and capabilities of people with disabilities and mental health support needs. To learn more, visit the Distinctability website.

The Employment Accessibility Resource Network (EARN) is a community initiative, led by United Wat East Ontario, that brings together in partnership employers, service providers and other stakeholders with the goal of increasing employment opportunities for people with disabilities and promoting inclusive and accessible workplaces.  

Every Canadian Counts (ECC) is calling on Canadian governments to work together to develop a national disability funding program to ensure essential disability supports are available to all Canadians living with chronic, long-term disabilities. ECC includes individuals living with disabilities, caregivers, advocates and support organizations.

Eviance is a trusted hub of knowledge on cross-disability issues, operated by Canadian Centre on Disability Studies Incorporated, working with people with disabilities and their allies in Canada.

At EY, our purpose is Building a better working world. The insights and quality services we provide help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and in economies the world over. We develop outstanding leaders who team to deliver on our promises to all of our stakeholders. In so doing, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, for our clients and for our communities.

Fable is a leading accessibility platform powered by people with disabilities. Fable moves organizations from worrying about compliance to building incredible and accessible user experiences.  Digital teams work with Fable to improve accessibility for over 1 billion people with disabilities. Fable Engage connects digital teams to people with disabilities remotely and on-demand for accessibility research and testing. Fable Upskill provides custom accessibility training for digital teams to gain skills to build inclusive products. To learn more, visit the Fable website.

We are educators, accessibility and technology experts who believe in the potential of all learners. By creating strong partnerships with innovative learning environment, school districts, and leading education professionals, we believe that together we can unlock individual abilities and improve overall achievement. Our approach to education is unrivalled. We provide education professionals with access to a buffet of classroom resources, professional development, and career-advancing learning experiences, to advance teaching practice. 

The Halifax Regional Municipality values diversity and inclusion in all that we do, think, and pursue. Diversity is more than race, ability, sexual orientation, language, gender or any other descriptive category. Diversity is understanding and utilizing different views, ideas, life experiences, skills and knowledge. At the Halifax Regional Municipality, we recognize diversity and inclusion as core values, thus laying the foundation to represent the communities we serve.  

The Office of Diversity & Inclusion/ANSAIO consists of the African Nova Scotian Affairs Integration Office (ANSAIO), Diversity Advisors and Local Immigration Partnership. The Office provides leadership, strategic direction, policy advice, professional development and expertise to all aspects of the Halifax Regional Municipality with respect to diversity and inclusion. The Office also engages external shareholders in supporting corporate diversity and inclusion initiatives and services.  

Hidden Mobility Disabilities Alliance Ltd. (HMDA) is an incorporated non-profit formed to advocate for meaningful accessibility for the approximately 4.25 million Canadian adults with hidden mobility disabilities (HMD), also known as limited mobility. The causes of hidden mobility disabilities are varied, of which the most common are osteoarthritis, COPD, and heart disease. The primary environmental barriers are distance to be walked (of over 15 meters) and time standing unsupported (of over 2 minutes). HMDA is currently funded for a three-year research project on how best to ensure accessibility for those with HMD. 

The HSSSBC’s mission is to enhance and support the sustainability and quality of Home Sharing and other housing options for adults with developmental disabilities throughout British Columbia. The HSSSBC will actively foster collaborations in the Home Share community locally, provincially, nationally and internationally. The aim is to advance the sustainability of the model and quality of life outcomes by supporting the development of peer networks, communities of practice and partnerships. A key focus area is the promotion of cultural safety for Indigenous people across the Home Sharing community and building on a foundation of trust, respect and humility.  

With a specific focus on Home Sharing, we will increase the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals, their families, Home Sharing providers and coordinating agencies. Sharing resources, tools and providing opportunities for learning and development, the HSSSBC will support consistency of practice.  

By addressing the opportunities and challenges that exist now and, in the future, the HSSSBC will support the sustainability of the Home Sharing model through quality improvement. Currently, the model faces real challenges related to rapid growth, housing availability, availability of the service in small urban centers and northern communities, increases in housing and living costs, and changing support needs over time. We will collaborate with partners in the Home Sharing community and disability sector to leverage opportunities and address challenges. 

Ian MacVicar Yoga & Mindful Resilience Coaching is a disabled Canadian Armed Forces Veteran’s coaching practice which integrates Trauma Informed Yoga Therapy Certified Teaching and Trauma Informed Mindfulness, as well as lived experience with PTSD, hearing impairment, severe illness, and dealing with long haul traumatic events. Ian’s practice is informed by a doctorate in intelligence analysis (DSS) and an incorporated consulting practice, in which he specializes in the psychological aspects of individual and group decision-making. To learn more, visit Ian’s Yoga & Mindful Resilience Coaching website.

Inclusion BC is a non-profit federation working with partners to build community and enhance the lives of children, youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families. They do this by supporting people’s abilities, promoting positive action, and advocating for rights, responsibilities, and social justice. Inclusion BC is supported by a membership of individuals, families, and 65-member organizations who are working together to build inclusive communities across the province of British Columbia.  

Inclusion Nova Scotia is a provincial not-for-profit organization committed to ensuring that individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families have the support they require to live full and inclusive lives in community. We do this by working alongside individuals and families, promoting rights and values in keeping with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), encouraging reform, and collaborating with other organizations for social justice. To learn more, visit the Inclusion Nova Scotia website.

Inclusive Society is a research initiative that aims at maximizing the impacts of innovation in Quebec. We believe that organizations representing people living with disabilities, public or private organizations and universities can put their expertise together to find solutions to the numerous obstacles encountered by people with disabilities. Partners of the Inclusive Society initiative agree to contribute to the identification of priority barriers as well as supporting, by different means, the solutions put forward to eliminate or reduce them. The partners are contributing to the projects supported by Inclusive Society by sharing their expertise as well as human, financial or material resources. 

IL CANADA is the national umbrella organization, representing and coordinating a network of Independent Living Centres at the national level.

The Inclusive Workplace and Supply Council of Canada (IWSCC) is a Canadian non-profit created to allow Veterans and/or people with disabilities who own businesses to be officially recognized as Diverse Suppliers. The IWSCC assists business owners through a certification process that can expand their business opportunities to include some of Canada’s leading brands and public-sector organizations.

Ingenium, formerly called the Canada Science and Technology Museum Corporation, is a Canadian Crown corporation responsible for overseeing national museums related to science and technology.

Jaime Winkler is a caregiver and advocate from Regina, Saskatchewan. She is the Network Coordinator for Cerebral Palsy Canada Network, a Research Engagement Strategist, Research Partner, Knowledge Mobilization and Resource Service.

L’Arche Canada is a national leader in building communities of inclusion and belonging. With a presence in Canada since 1969, L’Arche Canada is recognized as a national bilingual organization committed to fostering the social inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities. Relationships are the heart of L’Arche. The impact of L’Arche is personal, local, regional, and national. As part of the International Federation of L’Arche Communities, our impact is also global.  Across Canada and around the world, L’Arche creates communities of friendship and belonging. In L’Arche, people with and without intellectual disabilities live, work, learn, and grow together. L’Arche demonstrates that when persons with intellectual disabilities take their place at the table, they contribute to a more just, compassionate, and vibrant world for all.

La Cité is Ontario’s largest French-language college of applied arts and technology. Established in 1989, it is located in Ottawa (with a satellite campus in Hawkesbury and a business office in Toronto) and now offers more than 90 programs to some 5,000 students.

Make a Difference Through Inclusion Ltd. (MADTI), is a social enterprise, for-profit company that focuses on creating a better world by equalizing access for all abilities. Offering services to private and public service providers and non-profit organizations who are needing a team of professionals with various expertise in technology, innovation, and accessibility to help modernize their business while building an accessible and inclusive environment for their clients, customers, and employees. As part of MADTI’s social commitment to help remove barriers MADTI also participates and collaborates with like-minded organizations and individuals with an ecosystem of changemakers.  

Manitoba Possible is a non-profit organization serving Manitobans with disabilities. Programs range from case management & therapy services for children, the province’s wheelchair loan program, employment preparation & vocational rehabilitation, the provincial accessible parking permit program, newcomer navigation & support, recreation & leisure programs and many more. Manitoba Possible has three offices in Winnipeg and six rural and northern communities. All programs emphasize choice and self-determination and align with its mission of working together to eliminate barriers to fill and equal participation. 

More information about March of Dimes coming soon!

Matthew has the Disability and Employment File at the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples and has participated in several National and Regional Disability and Employment projects and conferences since 2018. He was the 2022 recipient of the Wiltshire Award from the Canadian Association of Supported Employment (CASE) for excellence in supported employment. 

“When a group comes together around something they love, it changes things. It changes how they see one another. It becomes a community. Something greater than the sum of its parts” – Battle Ground by Jim Butcher. Matthew has 15+ years of experience in the AF working on land and sea with electronic systems and mission focused individuals. Matthew also has 3 years of experience working with DND/CF Employment Equity groups, helping promote Diversity and Inclusion and 10+ years lived experience with family members who struggle with disability related challenges.  

Founded in Montreal, Quebec, in 1821, McGill University is Canada’s top ranked medical doctoral university. McGill is consistently ranked as one of the top universities, both nationally and internationally. It is a world-renowned institution of higher learning with research activities spanning three campuses, 11 faculties, 13 professional schools, 300 programs of student and over 39,000 students, including more than 10,400 graduate students. McGill attracts students from over 150 countries around the world, its 12,000 international students making up 30% of the student body. Over half of McGill students claim a first language other than English, including approximately 20% of our students who say French is their mother tongue. 

Melissa is the National Lead, Episodic Disabilities at Realize. She has worked in the field of health and HIV for over 15 years as an educator and facilitator, developing and delivering workshops to diverse audiences across Canada. Melissa brings a commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility to her work, and she has worked extensively with marginalized, 2SLGBTQ+, and Indigenous people. Melissa holds a B.A. and a B.Ed from Simon Fraser University and is currently pursuing an MEd at OISE – University of Toronto. Melissa aims to ensure that the conversation about accessibility in Canada includes people living with episodic disabilities and how this impacts employment accessibility for so many.  

A leader in online and experiential learning, Mount Saint Vincent University takes a personalized approach to education to nurture socially responsible global citizens. With equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility at the fore, MSVU has been challenging the status quo since its founding 150 years ago (1873) and today prioritizes access and impact for all underserved groups.

The MSVU Accessibility Plan 2022-2025 provides direction on how the university will work to further remove barriers and support its community and visitors. Through this plan, the university aims to create spaces that are truly inclusive of all.

MSVU has been nationally recognized for having one of the lowest student-to-professor ratios across its programs in Arts, Science, Education and Professional Studies; for providing students early access to valuable research opportunities; for its legacy in the advancement of women; and for facilitating critical advancements in food security, healthy aging, literacy, nutrition, childhood development and more.

MSVU is located in Mi’kma’ki, the unceded and ancestral territory of the Mi’kmaq People.

Clarington is one of eight municipalities located in Durham Region, Ontario. With a population of 105,000 people and growing, Clarington offers residents a blend of city living and rural charm. The Municipality of Clarington is a beautiful community that forms the eastern boundary of the Greater Toronto Area.

The National Educational Association of Disabled Students (NEADS) has had the mandate to support full access to education and employment for post-secondary students and graduates with disabilities across Canada.

The Neil Squire Society has been revolutionizing the lives of Canadians with disabilities since 1984 through accessible assistive technology. Speaking to a loved one. Checking email. Maintaining or finding a new job. Since day one, our mandate hasn’t changed – we believe people of all abilities should have the opportunity to live, work and play without barriers. Our work is focused on four distinct areas: Innovation, Digital Literacy, Employment and Assistive Technology. We create affordable assistive technology products that give people with disabilities greater control over their lives. We offer immersive programs that teach people with disabilities how to use technology and succeed both at home and in the workplace. We provide ergonomic solutions and access to assistive technologies that remove barriers for people with disabilities. Together, our work enables people with disabilities to achieve their goals, reach their full potential and continue living life to the fullest.  

The Government of Nova Scotia’s Accessibility Directorate is situated within the Department of Justice. It is responsible for administering Nova Scotia’s Accessibility Act and advancing issues across government. The Directorate works collaboratively with persons with disabilities, public sector entities, businesses, community organizations, and others to prevent and remove accessibility barriers across the province. Priority areas include: standard development in the built environment, education, employment, goods and services, information and communications, and transportation, awareness and capacity building, collaboration and enforcement, monitoring and evaluation, and government leading by example. 

The Nova Scotia League for Equal Opportunities is a catalyst in building social, community, and political leadership of persons with disabilities within Nova Scotia. We achieve this at a national level through our national affiliate, the Council of Canadians with Disabilities (CCD) and through provincial affiliates around the province and across the country. 

We envision a future where the abilities of persons with disabilities are fully recognized, developed and living as equals in society. The League takes a leading role and is a major contributor to many important and valuable community efforts. We are a cross-disability voice of Nova Scotians with disabilities. Our ongoing activities include; Provincial Access Awareness, Disability Student Scholarships, Disability Information Sharing Sessions, Disabled and Seniors Community-based Transit, Preparing Provincial Caucus Research Papers, Disability Emergency Preparedness, United Nations Disability Education, and Provincial Disability Tourism Improvements. 

Nunavummi Disabilities Makinnasuaqtiit Society, also known as NDMS, is the only cross-disability organization in Nunavit. We provide support to people across the lifespan from infants to Elders. NDMA developed out of grassroots community-based action. In 1999, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. Provided support, in the form of office space and staffing, to a small group of individuals who sought to bring awareness and justice to people with disabilities in Nunavut. In 2005, NDMS was incorporated as a society, and became the representative organization for people living with a disability in Nunavut.  

Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI) was formed in 1978 to act as a collective voice for immigrant serving agencies and to coordinate responses to shared needs and concerns. OCASI is a registered charity governed by a volunteer board of directors. Its membership comprises more than 200 community-based organizations in the province of Ontario.

The Accessibility Initiative is a national bilingual project that aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of settlement sector professionals so that they are better equipped to serve im/migrants with/visible disabilities. A range of online professional development activities, tools, and resources are created to assist organizations serving im/migrants in creating accessible and inclusive spaces. Also addressed is the need for agencies to comply with national and regional legislation related to accessibility, while providing effective settlement services to migrants with disabilities.

The Ontario Disability Employment Network (ODEN) is a professional network of employment service providers united to increase employment opportunities for people who have a disability.

Our vision is that all people who have a disability in Ontario have access to the labour force and the ability to achieve meaningful employment

ODEN has over 140 member agencies, all in the business of helping people who have a disability get into the workforce. Members are from every corner of the province and support people of all disability types. Beyond Ontario, we have connections with organizations in most provinces and territories of Canada.

Modern and forwarding-thinking, Ontario Tech University advances the discovery and application of knowledge to accelerate economic growth, regional development and social innovation. We inspire and equip our students and graduates to make a positive impact in a tech-focused world.
We believe it’s not only about developing the next tech breakthrough. Understanding and integrating the social and ethical implications of technology are our key differentiator.

We adapt to the ever-changing educational landscape by experimenting with the most effective ways to deliver flexible and dynamic learning, giving more choices to more people. By offering a range of credentials and experiential learning opportunities, and sparking entrepreneurship activities, we provide learner-centered educational options.

Our students enjoy a stimulating campus life experience that includes hundreds of clubs, cultural and community events, recreational opportunities and a growing varsity athletics program featuring basketball, badminton, curling, dance, golf, hockey, rowing, soccer, and women’s lacrosse.
In addition to excellence in teaching, we offer our students experiential learning opportunities through internships, co-ops, practicums, research projects and more. In fact, 85 percent of upper-year undergraduate students participate in experiential learning.

We collaborate with industry, community, government and academic organizations, bringing them together with our researchers and students to uncover innovative solutions for our partners’ most pressing problems. The home to more than 80 specialized research laboratories and facilities, we’re committed to attracting passionate and capable scholars to our high-tech campus.

Ottawa Foyers Partage has over 40 years of experience in providing quality and innovative support to persons with disabilities in the Ottawa area. Our early residents and founders were instrumental in working to end the institutionalization of disabled persons in Canada and their trailblazing spirit continues to inspire our work. We empower people to thrive and live their best life. We believe that every person has the right to live a fulfilling life and achieve their full potential, and we are here to help make that a reality. We offer a range of services to support people with developmental disabilities and their caregivers including; 24/7 residential services, supported independent living, respite services, and innovative community programming. 

Formed in 2013, the Presidents Group is made up of two parts. First, an advisory committee of 25 change-driven BC business leaders who are champions for more accessible, inclusive workplaces. They also have an advisory role to BC’s Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction.

Then in 2018, Presidents Group launched an online Community of Accessible Employers. This Community gives 200+ BC employers and service providers the chance to join the movement to accessible employment, through networking, resources, events, and support from staff accessibility specialists.

Propeller Dance is a charitable organization that transforms the art of dance and promotes artistic diversity by removing obstacles to participation in professional and community-level integrated dance.

Public Services and Procurement Canada services federal departments and agencies as their central purchasing agent, real property manager, treasurer, accountant, pay and pension administrator, integrity adviser and linguistic authority. 

Queen’s University is a public research university in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. Founded on 16 October 1841 via a royal charter issued by Queen Victoria, the university predates Canada’s founding by 26 years.

Canadian Disability Policy Alliance is a national collaboration of disability scholars, disability advocated and decision makers. Founded in 2009 as a SSHRC community-university research alliance.

Recreational Respite (est. 2008) promotes inclusion, encourages community participation, and nurtures social health and connectivity for children, youth and adults with disability, mental illness, disease, or other vulnerabilities, across Canada. Our work has been extensive in both Canada and internationally, promoting knowledge sharing with organizations (non-profit and for profits) to collaborate and maximize the program and service delivery but minimize the financial, attitudinal, systemic, and stigmatic barriers that many of these individuals and their families, face. Recreational Respite’s national team of recreation professionals offer direct one to one service in the community and group programming (in person and virtually). Involved in multiple collaboratives and national partnerships, Recreational Respite and other organizations work in collaboration toward the common goal of removing barriers to participation for our most vulnerable populations. Recreational Respite’s collective work identifies ways to promote accessible, impactful, and sustainable best practices.

The Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification TM (RHFAC) program works to help improve accessibility of the built environment in Canada – the places where we live, work, learn and play.

Applying 20 years of consultative and solutions-based leadership roles, Richard brings a diverse background that helps organizations improve program innovation, implement strategic change and enhance engagement opportunities. His diverse experience collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders enables him to leverage a vast scope of methods, tools and resources to effectively coach teams and connect relationships to build partnerships that create results and generate impact. Richard believes employment is one of the most influential “Social Determinants of Health” (SDH) and by increasing the participation of marginalized groups in this SDH we can improve their quality of life for generations to come.  

“Disability is another way that people live differently, view the world differently, experience the world differently, and express themselves differently. It’s a perspective that has significant value from which we can learn.” – Yazmin Laroche, Deputy Minister of Public Service Accessibility. With over twenty years of public service experience in diversity and inclusion, as well as a lifetime of lived experience with disability and gender diversity, Rosalie developed expertise in public policy, strategic planning, program design and service delivery. She has a Bachelor of Arts with honours from St. Francis Xavier University in English Language and Literature. She also has a Master of Arts and Letters with a focus on Critical Theory and Canadian Cultural Studies from Carleton University. Seeing a need for disability inclusion, Rosalie founded the current Advisory Committee on (Dis)Ability at the Department of Canadian Heritage and led policy thinking in the Department’s new Accessibility Office. As the Founding Chair of the Committee, Rosalie has advanced initiatives that support a disability inclusive workplace. As the first Senior Advisor in the Accessibility Office and currently a Senior Accessibility and Inclusion Advisor at Statistics Canada, she also worked to frame cogent and respectful departmental responses to the requirements of the Accessible Canada Act. Rosalie is interested in linking with the academic community and contributing toward the development, promotion and implementation of sound CAN policies that inform the disability community and the governments with which it deals. 

Saint Mary’s University is located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. The school is best known for having nationally leading programs in business and chemistry, as well as one of the best Canadian women’s basketball programs.

SARC has over five decades of experience in supporting nonprofits in the areas of training, consulting, services, and leadership. With a membership of approximately 100 community-based organizations, we are committed to providing quality services and training opportunities to our membership and beyond.  

SARC provides services to nonprofit organizations to expand their potential and support the work they do within their communities. Our work is organized into three divisions; Member Services, SARCAN, and Finance. The Member Services team provides leadership for the sector and supports community-based organizations through training, consulting and services. The SARCAN Team is a leader in sustainable recycling, environmental protection, and opportunities for people of all abilities, and the Finance Team provides financial and administrative services in support of SARC’s services and SARCAN Recycling.  

Scott received his Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Degree from York University in 1990. Scott obtained his Master of Public Policy, Administration and Law (MPPAL) at York University in 2017. Scott has been in the OPS family for over 31 years and currently works as a Senior Policy Advisor at the Treasury Board Secretariat. He has created the Connexions Program for professionals to discuss employment opportunities in the Ontario Public Service. This initiative has assisted at least 166 individuals with disabilities to find meaningful employment. Scott’s volunteer work includes being the past Chair of Transportation Action Now, a group dedicated to ensuring that persons with disabilities and senior citizens have access to public transportation throughout Ontario. He also used to be the Vice Chair of PACE Independent Living, an organization that provides attendant support services to persons with disabilities so they can lead independent lives within their communities. Scott founded the Canadian Disability Alliance, an advocacy group made up of over 1700 members across Canada. The groups’ primary goal is to advocate on behalf of persons with disabilities and their families. Scott has also served on the Birchmount Bluffs Community Neighborhood Center Board; which provides community services to the residents of Scarborough. Scott serves on the board of On the Move; an organization that provides support to children with developmental disabilities, by providing them with educational and employment services. Scott was also a member of the Board of Directors of Ability On-line, which provides the opportunity for disabled youth to communication online with their peers. Scott chaired the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s United Way Campaign, and he was the Secretary for Citizens and Disabilities – Ontario.  

Sowmya is a Human Resources professional, with experience in both the tech and service sectors. She believes that she needs to do a lot more to bring about accessibility in every aspect, from work to living with respect. Her goal is to contribute and be an advocate and help in influencing change for disability inclusion.  

Specialisterne Canada Inc. is a charitable not-for-profit Canadian organization focused on services for employers, employees, as well as outreach and public education.

Spinal Cord Injury Canada was established in 1945 by WWII veterans who sustained spinal cord injuries in the war. Back then, our founders did amazing things like help create the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, establish the world’s first rehabilitation centre for people with spinal cord injuries, and build a supportive network of people and organizations across the country. Over the years, Spinal Cord Injury Canada established divisions across the country, which now includes eight provincial organizations, referred to as Corporate Members. Together, we are a federated network supporting people with spinal cord injuries and other physical disabilities all across Canada.  

Statistics Canada is the national statistical office. The agency ensures Canadians have the key information on Canada’s economy, society and environment that they require to function effectively as citizens and decision makers.

St. Francis Xavier University is a public undergraduate liberal arts university located in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada. It is a member of the Maple League, a group of primarily undergraduate universities in Eastern Canada.

The Sinneave Family Foundation (Sinneave) is an operating foundation that works with individuals, communities, and organizations across Canada to remove barriers and enhance opportunities in education, employment, and housing for Autistic youth and adults. Sinneave also contributes to advancing knowledge related to social policy issues affecting the autism community by tracking key indicators and facilitating research and evaluation. Our vision is that people live, learn, work and thrive in their communities and realize their desired futures. To learn more, visit The Sinneave Family Foundation website.

Thompson Rivers University (TRU) is a public teaching and research university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees and vocational training. Since 1970, TRU has taken pride in providing an excellent education to every student who comes to us – from a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives, at various stages of the learning journey. We serve more than 25,000 students – on our campuses in Kamloops and Williams Lake, and via distance or online courses and programs through Open Learning.  

Transport Canada is a federal institution, leading the Transport Canada portfolio and working with our partners, Transport Canada is responsible for transportation policies and programs. We promote safe, secure, efficient and environmentally responsible transportation.

UFV is a fully accredited public university the communities and students of British Columbia’s Fraser Valley from a distributed network of campuses and online services. With scores of programs at numerous degree and credential levels, UFV makes it possible for students of all ages and backgrounds to pursue higher education. In 2019-20, UFV had an enrollment of nearly 16, 000 students.

UFV was established in 1974 as Fraser Valley College; in its first few years it created a strong presence throughout the region with locations in Agassiz, Chilliwack, Mission and Hope. The college was elevated to University College status in 1988 and given the authority to award four-year degrees, becoming a fully accredited university in 2008.

UFV offers its students more than 60 undergraduate degree, certificate, and diploma programs, including 17. Bachelor’s degree programs. It also has 10 master’s and postgraduate programs, and numerous trades and apprenticeship programs.

UFV takes conscious steps to ensure it reflects the diversity of its region. Abbotsford is the third-most diverse city in Canada, and this is reflected by both the student body and the staff at the University. Reflecting the Fraser Valley’s strong ties to northern India, UFV offers programs in Chandigarh, India. The University also actively engages with the region’s Indigenous communities through its Indigenous Affairs Office and offers Indigenous student significant resources through the Indigenous Student Centre.

The University of Manitoba is a public research university in Manitoba, Canada. The university maintains a reputation as a top research-intensive post-secondary educational institution and conducts more research annually than any other university in the region.

The University of New Brunswick is a public university, the oldest English-language university in Canada, and among the oldest public universities in North America. UNB was founded by a group of seven Loyalists who left the United States after the American Revolution.

The University of Ottawa, often referred to as OttawaU, uOttawa, or U of O, is a bilingual public research university in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

Founded in 1827, the University of Toronto has evolved into Canada’s leading institution of learning, discovery, and knowledge creation. We are proud to be one of the world’s top research-intensive universities, driven to invent and innovate.

The University of Victoria is a public comprehensive research university located in the Greater Victoria municipalities of Oak Bay and Saanich, British Columbia, Canada. The university has ranked as the second-best comprehensive university in Canada for three successive years.

Waterloo is a member of the U15, a group of research-intensive universities in Canada. The university operates the largest post-secondary co-operative education program in the world, with over 20,000 undergraduate students in over 140 co-operative education programs.

VIA Rail was born from a vision to connect and unite the cities and people of Canada with a safe, comfortable and environmentally responsible service from coast-to-coast. Having served over 5 million passengers, VIA Rail’s mandate is to operate the national passenger rail services on behalf of the Government of Canada, offering intercity rail services and ensuring rail transportation services to regional and remote communities. Its objective is to offer a safe, accessible, efficient, reliable, sustainable and environmentally friendly passenger rail service that meets the needs of Canadian passengers.  

The WSIB provides wage-loss benefits, medical coverage and support to help people get back to work after a work-related injury or illness. It is funded by premiums paid by Ontario businesses and provides no-fault collective liability insurance and access to industry-specific health and safety information.

York University is a public research university in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is Canada’s third-largest university, and it has approximately 55,700 students, 7,000 faculty and staff, and over 315,000 alumni worldwide.