Featured Member: Neil Squire Society

As December 3 marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities, it serves as an important reminder to promote the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities while addressing critical issues related to inclusion. One organization that has been making significant strides in improving the lives of those with disabilities is the Neil Squire Society. With over 40 years of service, the Neil Squire Society is dedicated to enhancing well-being, empowering individuals and promoting independence through innovative technology, employment opportunities and a client-centered approach.

Nikki Langdon, Prairie Regional Manager of the Neil Squire Society, has been part of the organization for over 21 years, playing a key role in advancing the mission and making a lasting impact on the lives of many Canadians.

A legacy of empowerment and employment

The roots of the Neil Squire Society trace back to 1981 when Neil Squire, following a tragic accident that left him a tetraplegic, found himself facing limited communication and independence. With little hope from others, Neil’s relative—an engineer—created a breakthrough technology: the “sip and puff” device, which enabled Neil to communicate using Morse code. This innovation sparked the creation of the Neil Squire Society, which officially became an organization in 1984.

Today, the Neil Squire Society continues to empower individuals with disabilities by not only offering technological support but also by helping them secure meaningful employment. Nikki shares an inspiring example of a client who had been unemployed for years due to illness. With the support of the Neil Squire Society, the client was able to find a job and even purchase his first suit—an achievement that filled him with pride.

“He came into the office wearing that suit and he was so proud,” Nikki recalls with a smile. This story, like many others, highlights how employment not only provides financial stability but also fosters a sense of purpose and independence for individuals with disabilities.

A client-centred philosophy

At the heart of the Neil Squire Society’s approach is its unwavering commitment to its clients. Nikki explains that the client-centered philosophy is what truly sets the organization apart.

“The client is the centre focus of every interaction we have,” she shares. “Our company is always working toward continuing to serve as many people one-to-one that we can.”

This dedication ensures that individuals with a wide range of disabilities, both visible and invisible, are welcomed and supported. From physical impairments to mental health challenges, the Neil Squire Society helps anyone who self-declares a disability to live independently and achieve their full potential.

In addition to a client-centered approach, technology plays a crucial role in the work of the Neil Squire Society. Originally founded as a technology-based initiative, the organization continues to leverage innovative solutions to assist people with disabilities.

“Technology is always on the forefront,” Nikki says, noting that the Neil Squire Society stays ahead of the technological curve.

Tools like 3D printing are used to create assistive devices that significantly improve the quality of life for those with disabilities. Through the initiative Makers Making Change, the organization enables individuals with access to 3D printers to create their own assistive devices, empowering people to better live, work and play.

“Assistive technology for people who have differences—I think that’s going to become our norm,” Nikki says, emphasizing the growing role of innovation in promoting independence and inclusivity.

Shaping an inclusive future

As the Neil Squire Society looks to the future, Nikki foresees even more opportunities for growth, particularly in the realm of technology. The organization is committed to making assistive technologies more accessible and continuing to support individuals with disabilities across all aspects of life.

The Neil Squire Society’s mission extends beyond just technological advancements; it also seeks to eradicate the stigma surrounding disabilities. Nikki envisions a world where disabilities are not seen as something separate or different, but as an integral part of society.

“Our goal is to get rid of stigma. I think that’s our path.”

In addition to supporting individuals with disabilities in securing employment, Nikki highlights the ways in which the Neil Squire Society assists local businesses. By offering everything from financial support to technology and ergonomic assessments, the organization makes it easier for employers to accommodate individuals with disabilities in the workplace.

“Anybody in the Chamber can come to us—we pay those first three months to help through the employee’s training period,” Nikki explains. This initiative not only supports people with disabilities but also benefits businesses by providing them with the tools and resources they need to create inclusive workplaces.

Through its ongoing dedication to technology, empowerment and inclusion, the Neil Squire Society continues to improve the lives of thousands of individuals, helping them find employment, independence and a greater sense of belonging in society. Nikki's personal journey as both a person with a disability and a dedicated professional reflects the organization's core values.

“This is what mental health looks like. I have a job; I've been doing it 21 years and here I am. And there's a lot of us. So, let's open our hearts.”

To learn more about the Neil Squire Society, visit: neilsquire.ca.