A breath. A conversation. A world of possibilities.

The Neil Squire Society has been revolutionizing the lives of Canadians with disabilities since 1984 through accessible technology.

Our organization was established when 21-year-old Neil Squire was left a brain-stem tetraplegic after a car crash. Seeing he was unable to speak or move his arms and legs, Neil’s family and a group of professionals in Vancouver created a ground-breaking device allowing him to communicate by using his breath to type Morse code. The technology was rudimentary at the time but it reconnected Neil to the world, allowing him to speak with family and friends once again. After Neil passed, the small but mighty group formed the Society in his name to keep improving the lives of people with disabilities. 

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.
 

Neil Squire Programs

Employment Programs

Creative Employment Options helps people with disabilities prepare for, obtain and maintain employment. This unique, comprehensive and participant centered program is designed to develop the skills required to help individuals achieve their employment goals.

Computer Tutoring Programs

Computer Comfort offers one-on-one computer tutoring at no cost to qualifying participants in a supportive, client-centred environment; a refurbished donated computer for the home, if needed; and ongoing technical support.

Distance Computer Comfort is our Computer Comfort Program available online anywhere in Canada. Tailoring to individuals with disabilities all across Canada, it allows for a flexible learning schedule without having to leave the comfort of your own home.

Digital Jumpstart is a free online program for people with disabilities to improve their digital literacy. Participants work one-on-one with an instructor in a virtual classroom from the comfort of their homes. Topics covered are based on individual needs. Resources are available for basic digital literacy hardware and software.

Assistive Technology Programs

Makers Making Change connects makers to people with disabilities who need assistive technologies.

Solutions provides ergonomic and assistive technology assessments for home, school, or the office for individuals with physical and other disabilities.

WorkBC Assistive Technology Services, operated by Neil Squire, provides funding for supports such as assistive devices, equipment and technology, ergonomic and restorative supports, communication and hearing devices related to work, workplace access and modification, and vehicle modifications. Services are provided to employers, employees, and self-employed individuals located in all communities in British Columbia, either in-person, via outreach, or virtually.

The programs we offer have a few characteristics that make them unique:

A Holistic Approach

Our programs take into consideration all aspects of the human being; whether they need to improve only their computer skills or they require a more complex combination of services like learning how to improve their motivation and self confidence, while improving their literacy skills through adaptive technology, we work with each client on an individual basis to identify their particular needs and create an individual action plan for them to succeed.

Self-paced Environment

Our programs offer a self paced environment which allows our clients to learn at their own rhythm. This offers them the level of comfort they need to remain motivated by their own successes.

Professional Staff

The knowledge, dedication and professionalism of our staff and volunteers complete the equation. They give our clients all the support and advice they need to successfully complete their programs.

Please visit www.neilsquire.ca to learn more about our programs and services