Neil Squire Society Launches Empower3D, A National Employment Program For Youth With Disabilities

November 25, 2024

The Empower3D Program provides youth with disabilities the opportunity to develop skills and gain valuable work experience in the manufacturing sector

BURNABY, November 25, 2024 – The Neil Squire Society, a Canadian national non-profit organization, and leader in assistive technology, has launched Empower3D, a new employment program for youth with disabilities. Empower3D is available across Canada will provide youth with disabilities the opportunity to develop their skills and gain valuable work experience in the manufacturing sectors.

Empwer3D logo

The program taps into Neil Squire’s 40 years of experience providing employment support to people with disabilities.

Participants will join one of 10 cohorts running from now through to March 2028, with a goal of assisting 120 youth participants during that time.

The Program Offers:

  • Support in overcoming barriers to employment through skill development, wrap-around supports, and work experience opportunities
  • Comprehensive curriculum and learning modules focused on personal development, professional development, and employment skills development
  • Opportunities for participants to visit various worksites and gain firsthand exposure to potential career paths within the manufacturing sector
  • Work experience placements related to the interests and pursuits of youth that provide:
    • Meaningful opportunities for youth participants
    • Wages above the minimum wage
    • Support for participants to transition into the workforce
    • Wage subsidies to support the hiring of program participants

Qualifications Include:

  • Between 15-30 years of age (inclusive)
  • Canadian citizen, or permanent resident or a protected person as defined by the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
  • Legally entitled to work in Canada
  • Legally entitled to work according to the relevant provincial/territorial legislation and regulations.
  • Have a self-declared disability
  • Looking to pursue a career path within the manufacturing sector

Empower3D is funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy.

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About Neil Squire
“We use Technology, Knowledge, and Passion to Empower Canadians with Disabilities.” Neil Squire, the Canadian leader in assistive technology, has been revolutionizing the lives of Canadians with disabilities since 1984. Their work, which is focused on Innovation, Digital Literacy, Employment, and Assistive Technology, enables people with disabilities to achieve their goals, reach their full potential and continue living life to the fullest.