Disability & Accessibility Community Supports
Advancing accessibility is about creating more barrier-free communities, workplaces, and services where all people, regardless of disability, are included at UCalgary and beyond.
Discover a wide range of programs, services, and initiatives designed to empower individuals with disabilities and foster inclusive communities. This section highlights resources that enhance accessibility and provide meaningful support for all.
Whether you’re looking for assistance, seeking resources to navigate challenges, or learning more about the importance of accessibility, this is the place to start. The goal is to ensure that everyone feels seen, valued, and included in a community where barriers are minimized, and opportunities are maximized.
Explore the curated list of local organizations, advocacy groups, and support networks, all working to create equitable spaces and promote accessibility. Learn about programs available to improve quality of life, including financial aid, assistive technology, educational services, and workplace accommodations.
SU Student Clubs
For more student groups, please visit the Students' Association ClubHub.
Invisible Disability Education and Advocacy Association - IDEAA
The Invisible Disability Education and Advocacy Association (IDEAA) is a student-run organization based at the University of Calgary, dedicated to advocating for individuals with invisible disabilities and illnesses. IDEAA focuses on reducing stigma, fostering understanding, and promoting awareness of the unique challenges faced by those living with invisible disabilities.
Community Rehabilitation and Disability Studies Students’ Association
The Community Rehabilitation and Disability Studies Program (CRDS) was established in 1979 as the first of a growing number of disability studies programs in Canada, and one of the first in North America.
Campus Support
Neurodiversity Support Office, UCalgary
Through workshops, peer support networks, and individualized guidance, the Neurodiversity Support Office promotes understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity within the university community. It also collaborates with campus partners to enhance accessibility and create equitable opportunities in academics, employment, and social engagement.
- Neurodiversity Support Advising (NSA)
- Neurodiversity Drop-in Advising
- Neuro-Inclusive Workshops and Educational training
The Neurodiversity Support Office is located at Student Accessibility Services (MSC 452). Neurodiversity Drop-in Advising is at the Sensory-Friendly Student Lounge (MSC 450).
Student Accessibility Services, University of Calgary
Student Accessibility Services (SAS)
Student Accessibility Services (SAS) at the University of Calgary is dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable learning environment by providing support and accommodations for students with disabilities. SAS works collaboratively with students, faculty, and staff to reduce barriers, ensuring all students have the opportunity to succeed academically and thrive within the campus community.
SAS offers a range of services, including individualized accommodation plans, assistive technologies, exam support, and accessibility resources tailored to meet the diverse needs of students. Whether supporting physical, sensory, mental health, learning, or chronic health-related disabilities, SAS is committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and accessibility across all aspects of university life. By empowering students and promoting awareness, SAS helps create a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone at the University of Calgary.
Student Success Centre, UCalgary
The Student Success Centre (SSC) at the University of Calgary is a comprehensive resource hub dedicated to helping students achieve their academic, personal, and professional goals.
Peer Support, UCalgary
Operated by trained student volunteers, the PSC provides a compassionate, non-judgmental environment where individuals can share their concerns, seek advice, or simply talk to someone who understands the challenges of university life.
Accessibility and Accommodation Support for Candidates
The University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community.
Sinneave Family Foundation
The Sinneave Family Foundation (Sinneave) works to reduce barriers and facilitate opportunities for autistic youth and adults to live, learn, work and thrive in their communities and to realize their desired futures. Sinneave draws on expertise and experience in innovative program and service development, knowledge sharing and collaborative community activities that generate lasting outcomes.
UCalgary and The Sinneave Family Foundation
Partnering with The Sinneave Family Foundation and learning from their deep expertise, resources and programs will bolster the success and sustainability of work-integrated learning programs and support equitable participation in these programs for neurodiverse students.
Community Supports
Calgary Society for Persons with Disabilities (CSPD)
CSPD offers a range of services, including residential care, life skills development, and recreational programs tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual. By fostering a person-centred approach, the organization ensures that clients have the tools, resources, and opportunities to achieve their fullest potential. A cornerstone of CSPD's mission is to create a sense of belonging and community for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Rehabilitation Society of Calgary
The Rehabilitation Society of Calgary is a member-owned, member-operated charity of and for people with disabilities.
Calgary Alternative Support Services
Calgary Alternative Support Services Inc., (CASS) was founded in 1988 to address the segregation, isolation and limited opportunities available to people with disabilities.
Calgary SCOPE Society
The Calgary SCOPE Society works in alliance with people with disabilities, their families and friends, and other community members to understand problems and create solutions to personal and social justice issues.
Developmental Disabilities Resource Centre of Calgary (DDRC)
The DDRC promotes awareness and supports communities to include persons with developmental disabilities, thereby strengthening communities for all citizens.
Alberta Council of Disability Services (ACDS)
Established in 1972, we work closely with the Government of Alberta and other partners to strengthen the Community Disability Services (CDS) sector to benefit Albertans with developmental disabilities.
Hope Inclusion
To facilitate and generate opportunities for individuals and the community to engage in the reciprocal investment of the social, physical, emotional, spiritual and cultural well-being of others.
Chrysalis
Chrysalis offers personalized services designed to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities while providing meaningful opportunities for growth and community inclusion.
Vantage Enterprises Ltd.
Empowering lives through joy-filled opportunities, collaboration, and advocacy, fostering independence, respect, and inclusion while celebrating diversity and advancing equity in all we do.
Independent Living Resource Centre Calgary (ILRCC)
Empowering individuals with disabilities across Alberta through a team offering programs, services, and resources that support independence, foster inclusion, and promote equal opportunities.
Vecova
The organization aims to foster an inclusive community where people with disabilities can thrive and achieve their full potential.
Persons with Developmental Disabilities
An association of individuals and families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) striving to assist each other and the broader community so that those with ASD live meaningful and purposeful lives in a community that values them.
Centre for Newcomers (CFN)
Since 1988 the Centre for Newcomers (CFN) has been a key resource for immigrants and refugees of all nationalities in Calgary.