BURNABY, British Columbia, January 24, 2011 – The Neil Squire Society today announced that TD Bank Group (new window) contributed $25,000 to support the distance learning component of its Employ-Ability program, a national program for people with physical disabilities. This contribution marks the third consecutive year of support and brings their total commitment to this program to $75,000.
The Employ-Ability program is delivered through Neil Squire Society regional offices, partner sites, and the Internet. Participants are able to sign into the online class room anywhere there is an Internet connection and at any time. Aimed at those who are most marginalized in society, particularly those who have had very long-term detachment from the labour force, the Employ-Ability program provides a flexible, self-paced and supportive environment, and services the full spectrum of people with physical disabilities with the goal of preparing them for future employment opportunities.
“As demand for our service is ever increasing, this funding from TD (new window) will allow us to support and build onto our existing distance learning platform which will allow us to reach out to greater numbers of participants across the country,” said Gary Birch, Executive Director of the Neil Squire Society, “The commitment that TD (new window) has shown to the Neil Squire Society and our Employ-Ability program is tremendous and we are thrilled to have an ongoing relationship with them.”
“Through our involvement in programs like Employ-Ability, we are supporting an organization doing great work across the country to help adults with physical disabilities by teaching skills, providing education and instilling confidence that can lead to long-term workforce opportunities,” said Raymond Chun, Senior Vice President, TD Canada Trust (new window). “In addition to the support of the Neil Squire Society program, TD (new window) is committed to creating an accessible environment for our employees, customers and the communities we serve.”
About the Neil Squire Society
The Neil Squire Society is the only not-for-profit organization in Canada that for over 25 years has used technology, knowledge and passion to empower Canadians with physical disabilities. The Society has developed innovative programs and services and some of the world’s leading edge assistive technology for people with physical disabilities. More than 20,000 people with disabilities in Canada have benefited from the work of the Society. With about fifty staff, the Neil Squire Society has offices and provides services to Canadian in Vancouver, Regina, Ottawa, Fredericton, and Moncton, as well as to many small communities across Canada via distance education.
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If you’d like more information about this topic, please contact Suzanne Cross by phone at 604-473-9363 or by e-mail at suzannec@neilsquire.ca.