Neil Squire’s Makers Making Change (new window) program is proud to support the Cerebral Palsy Association of BC (CPABC) (new window)’s Gamers Club (new window) initiative, bringing accessible gaming to people with cerebral palsy in British Columbia.

Through the Gamers Club, 20 CPABC members received fully customized adaptive gaming setups. Makers Making Change Accessible Gaming Lead Tyler Fentie conducted assessments for each participant, ensuring each setup met the gamer’s needs. Clubs That Care (new window) volunteers built and donated joysticks and custom toppers tailored to the individual mobility needs of participants.

“Our collaboration with Makers Making Change has been nothing short of incredible. Tyler Fentie’s thoughtful assessments have guided us in finding the right solutions for accessible gaming and adaptive equipment. Beyond this, the ongoing support and consultations have been invaluable, helping us respond to questions and ensure Gamers of all ages have what they need to succeed,” says CPABC Director of Operations, Denzil Hunt.

“Thanks to Clubs That Care, our members received 3D-printed joysticks that improved accessibility and engagement. This partnership continues to break down barriers and open doors to inclusion, independence, and meaningful social connection for people with cerebral palsy.”

Each member received a PlayStation 5 console, and an adaptive setup customized to meet their unique needs. Participants use a wide range of equipment, including 3D-printed adaptive joysticks, PlayStation Access Controllers, switches, and touch-sensitive devices — all tailored to how they move, interact, and play.

The 3D-printed joysticks and toppers were built by “STEM Club,” a Clubs That Care group out of a local high school led by Ethan, a longtime Makers Making Change volunteer, and his friend, Joaquin, as well as club executives Sandra and Bellerie. (STEM Club volunteers Jenny, Alyssa, Ethan, Joaquin, and Sandra are pictured above with Director of Makers Making Change Justin Pezzin and Denzil).

Gamers Club participants also receive ongoing technical support, have access to a welcoming virtual space on Discord, monthly online meetups focused on connection, shared interests, and  presentations by guest speakers, and of course, the chance to game together. The goal is to build lasting friendships and a strong sense of community that extends beyond gaming.

“Along with providing equipment that lets participants play on their own or with family and friends, the real hope is to continue building community,” Denzil explains. She notes that the virtual component allows more people to take part who might not otherwise be able to. “Because of accessibility barriers and the shortage of inclusive social events, many people with disabilities are often left out. This program helps change that through its inclusive design.”

Participants in the Gamers Club range in age from 10 to 66, and are located across BC. The gamers have been enjoying the experience.

“I’ve always loved playing video games but never had a community to play with, so this is really exciting,” shares one Gamers Club participant.

“I don’t live in the Lower Mainland and have been wanting to join the community. Finally, there’s something I can do virtually,” says another.

In addition to our support of the CPABC initiative, the Gamers Club is supported by Technology for Living (new window), which handles the adaptive gaming setup installations, and Easy Surf (new window), which set up the Discord platform. The initiative is jointly funded by the PA Woodward Foundation (new window), the Kindred Foundation (new window), the Face the World Foundation (new window), and the BC Rehab Foundation (new window).

This post originally appeared on the Makers Making Change (new window) website.