CanAssist at the University of Victoria

CanAssist at the University of Victoria CanAssist addresses unmet needs of people who have disabilities or face barriers to meaningful participation in society.

Through our innovative technologies, programs, and services, we are advancing inclusion and accessibility for all ages and abilities. Creating a world without barriers, where all people can meaningfully participate and belong.

We’re thrilled to share that the Air Canada Foundation has donated $50,000 to CanAssist at the University of Victoria! ❤...
04/27/2026

We’re thrilled to share that the Air Canada Foundation has donated $50,000 to CanAssist at the University of Victoria! ❤️

This funding will help provide customized assistive technologies to children and youth across Canada, supporting greater independence, inclusion, and participation in daily life.

Support like this from organizations like the Air Canada Foundation helps make our work possible at CanAssist. Together, we’re helping advance equity and inclusion for people of all ages living with physical, cognitive, or mental health challenges.

A huge thank you to the Air Canada Foundation for helping build a more inclusive world!

To support more moments like this, get involved at canassist.ca/make-an-impact

Image description: A smiling child playing with an interactive toy in a beautiful room with wooden flooring, a big comfy blue chair, and a large window with a view of nature.

Shoutout to Lorenz (he/him), who joined us this term from Germany as a Mechanical Engineering student from the Baden-Wue...
04/24/2026

Shoutout to Lorenz (he/him), who joined us this term from Germany as a Mechanical Engineering student from the Baden-Wuerttemberg Cooperative State University in Heidenheim. With experience as a machinist, he brought a strong mix of hands-on skills and new ideas. “Working at CanAssist during my study abroad program was a very educational and special experience. I learned how effective inclusive design can be and always felt like a valued member of the team.” Lorenz recently wrapped up his University of Victoria UVic Co-op & Career co-op with CanAssist, and we’ll really miss having him around!

Learn more about co-op opportunities! 🔗 https://ow.ly/FSXz50YPwgI

Image description: A co-op student with glasses and a black jacket smiles while working at a lathe in a workshop.

04/22/2026

Our University of Victoria UVic Co-op & Career UVic Engineering and Computer Science co-op Griffin, rocking out on his team's award-winning updated 3D Printed Guitar Strummer for CanAssist! 🎵🎶

Hit us up if you're interested in this technology!

Find out more about our original guitar strummer: https://canassist.ca/tech/guitar-strummer

The 3D-printed guitar strummer for CanAssist won the University of Victoria MECH 400 Most Innovated Design Award! Congra...
04/15/2026

The 3D-printed guitar strummer for CanAssist won the University of Victoria MECH 400 Most Innovated Design Award! Congratulations to Cole Manton, Samuel Cowie, Griffin Long, Cairo Kennedy, and Jack Martin! 🏆

The team includes some of our former UVic Co-op & Career students who updated CanAssist’s guitar strummer: https://canassist.ca/tech/guitar-strummer

Know someone who could use one? Start a conversation or send a request!

Image description: UVic MECH 400 Capstone course, Most Innovative Design Award, 3D Printed Guitar Strummer 🎸 A team of UVic MECH 400 students standing at their booth with a pedal-controlled guitar strummer assistive technology.

Build in accessibility from the start, because accessibility in your team is not an afterthought.Accessibility in the Wo...
03/14/2026

Build in accessibility from the start, because accessibility in your team is not an afterthought.

Accessibility in the Workplace is a new online course presented by CanAssist and Continuing Studies at UVic at the University of Victoria!

Earn a digital badge in just a few hours a week, over six weeks. Learn how workplaces can support accessibility and inclusion online, and at your own pace.

Register with Continuing Studies at UVic! canassist.ca/course



Image description: CanAssist, Continuing Studies at UVic, Lead with Accessibility. Online course, Accessibility in the Workplace. A group of colleagues including people with disabilities in a video chat with some people online and some people in the physical office. Hip, minimal office setting with wooden flooring, white walls, and big windows.

Consider workplace accessibility through an environmental lens! Accessibility in the Workplace is a new online course p...
03/12/2026

Consider workplace accessibility through an environmental lens!

Accessibility in the Workplace is a new online course presented by CanAssist and Continuing Studies at UVic at the University of Victoria.

In just a few hours a week, over six weeks, explore how workplace environments, practices, and systems shape accessibility. The course is fully online and self-paced, allowing you to learn at your own schedule.

Register through Continuing Studies at UVic! https://ow.ly/uEJ650Yt3kO



Image description: CanAssist, Continuing Studies at UVic, Online course, Accessibility in the Workplace, Make accessible environments. Someone with low vision in a conversation with a colleague, while working on a computer, in a bright office setting with overhead lighting and several work stations.

CanAssist and Continuing Studies at UVic have teamed up to offer an online course to support accessible workplaces. Deve...
03/05/2026

CanAssist and Continuing Studies at UVic have teamed up to offer an online course to support accessible workplaces. Develop the mindset and vocabulary to support meaningful inclusion in any setting. This six-week course introduces the core concepts of disability, accessibility, and inclusion. You will explore the social model of disability, anti-ableism, neurodiversity, inclusive and plain language, and the role of assistive technology. Register for Accessibility in the Workplace! https://ow.ly/klAC50YpWBQ

Image description: CanAssist, Continuing Studies at UVic, Online course, Accessibility in the Workplace, More than just a checklist! Someone with a limb difference working in a home office on a computer, wearing headphones, using a stylus.

Last week, Liam, our Mechanical Design Co-op student, had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in product design ...
03/02/2026

Last week, Liam, our Mechanical Design Co-op student, had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in product design alongside Miles from our Technology Development team. From designing for manufacturing to refining sheet metal techniques, he’s developing practical skills that will support his growth as a designer and engineer.

Together, they are creating two Accessible Dodgeball Launchers for two local students. While the overall design is the same, each device is thoughtfully customized to meet the individual needs of the student who will use it. The goal is simple and meaningful: to ensure both students can fully participate in PE and recreational activities, connect with their peers, and feel included in the action.

Interested in a co-op term with CanAssist? Learn more at UVic Co-op and Career: https://ow.ly/UywM50Yoa82

Image description: Liam (left) and Miles (right) are collaborating on an accessible dodgeball launcher in the CanAssist machine shop. Both are smiling and looking at the camera, showcasing their teamwork and enthusiasm for the project.

On the last Wednesday in February, we celebrate Pink Shirt Day! 🩷This year’s theme is “sprinkle kindness.” Now a movemen...
02/25/2026

On the last Wednesday in February, we celebrate Pink Shirt Day! 🩷This year’s theme is “sprinkle kindness.”

Now a movement celebrated across the globe, Pink Shirt Day was inspired by an act of kindness and resistance in Nova Scotia. Two high-school students took a stand against bullying by wearing pink in support of a fellow student.

Pink Shirt Day is a powerful reminder that intentional actions can create meaningful change in our communities. By wearing pink, we show that we stand together against bullying and for a world where everyone feels included, valued, and respected.

Image description: A group of 10 CanAssist staff members are standing together, smiling and looking directly at the camera. Several of the staff are wearing bright pink shirts. A few team members are holding up a sign that reads “sprinkle kindness”.

Are you a post-secondary student who could benefit from a customized assistive technology? CanAssist develops customized...
02/23/2026

Are you a post-secondary student who could benefit from a customized assistive technology?

CanAssist develops customized assistive technologies that help students learn, build skills, and take meaningful steps toward their career goals.

If this sounds like you or someone you know, complete our technology request form to connect with our team and make education and employment more accessible.

Submit your request here: https://ow.ly/85hX50Yknqc

Image description: CanAssist team members Jen and Brandon smile for the camera while sitting at a desk. Jen points to a piece of assistive technology on the desk, while Brandon, wearing glasses, types on his laptop. In the background, a poster reads 'We build tech so you can work,' and a whiteboard with code notes is visible.

02/19/2026

On this week’s episode of the Leaders of Inclusive Child Care podcast – “Leading Community Connections” with Wendy Kenward!🎙️✨

CanAssist speaks with Wendy, full of wisdom and heart from nearly four decades in the field. She shares her leadership journey and the profound impact of mentorship, storytelling, and community relationships. Learn how authentic connection with families, staff, and community creates truly inclusive programs.

Listen on your favourite podcast app and subscribe to the show to be the first to hear part two of the episode coming out on February 20th!



Video description: A picture of Wendy, who has short curly hair and is wearing a black shirt, amongst a colourful starry sky. Text reads: “Ep 9: Leading Community Connections – Part 1 with Wendy Kenward. Available on February 18th.” The Apple Podcasts, Youtube, and Spotify logos are present.

02/12/2026

Hey child care leaders – want to learn more about incorporating diverse cultures in your programs? Check out our latest podcast episode! 🎙️✨

In another two-part episode series, CanAssist speaks with Ana Delgado about building culturally responsive programs. She shares how strong relationships, intentional hiring, and trauma-informed practice helped her to create a welcoming, inclusive, and multicultural environment for all children. Ana’s experience can provide leaders with a roadmap for shaping inclusive spaces.

Listen to part one on your favourite podcast app and subscribe to the show to be the first to hear part two of the episode coming out on February 13th!



Video description: A picture of Ana, who has long dark hair and is wearing a blue shirt, amongst a colourful starry sky. Text reads: “Ep 7: Incorporating Culture as a Leader – Part 1. Available on February 11th.” The Apple Podcasts, Youtube, and Spotify logos are present.

Address

3800 Finnerty Road, CARSA, University Of
Victoria, BC
V8P5C2

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm

Telephone

+12507217300

Website

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