ABOUT US
Our story, mission, and the people behind the work
Ability Workshop Society is a volunteer-run registered charity committed to designing, adapting, and building innovative solutions for people living with a disability.
OUR STORY
From a Tetra chapter to Ability Workshop Society
We started out as the Calgary chapter of Tetra Society of North America in 1994. In 2002, Tetra Assistive Devices Society of Calgary evolved into an independent chapter of Tetra Society of North America when it was granted non-profit status. In 2021, we became a fully independent organization with a new name: Ability Workshop Society.
Ron Marshall, a long-time volunteer, made a substantial donation of metal working equipment in 2012. With space donated by the Drop-In Centre, we opened the workshop where people meet to socialize, collaborate, and create. In honour of his generosity, leadership, and mentorship, the shop was named the Ron Marshall Centre in 2019.
We are looking for a new home
Ability Workshop Society continues to evolve due to the expected redevelopment in the Inglewood community triggered by the Green Line LRT. We expect the building we are using now to be redeveloped, leaving us in need of a new space by December 2027.
We are looking for a space of approximately 3000 sq ft and are open to sharing a larger space with other non-profit organizations. Requirements include being accessible, preferably close to transit and good parking availability.
Please contact us if you can help us in this quest.
MISSION & VALUES
Ability Workshop Society is a volunteer organization committed to designing and building safe, economical, innovative solutions that promote independent living, healthy recreation, inclusive play, and self-sufficiency for people with disabilities.
Trustworthiness
Collaboration
Empowerment
Innovation
WHAT WE DO
Custom solutions, built by volunteers
We accept requests from the public for custom assistive devices and evaluate the request. Requestors include members of the public, teachers, occupational therapists, and other non-profits. When approved, a team is assigned to further define the client's requirements, design and build the device. The team meets with the client to ensure that the solution meets their need and make any needed adjustments.
We have an accessible workshop in the Inglewood community in Calgary. In 2025, a shop expansion provided a much bigger space with a workshop, kitchen, washroom, and meeting space to work in, collaborate, and meet clients. We have increased the range of capabilities such as selling used equipment and utilizing our welding tools.
Our volunteers come from a wide variety of backgrounds with skills including admin, engineering, welding, electronics, and so many more. They generously donate their time and talent. There is no cost for labour, only for materials used. We can do this thanks to generous donations and funding. Last year we received over 130 assistance requests. Each solution makes a difference to a client and their circle.
Our solutions are as varied as our clientele.
OUR TEAM & VOLUNTEERS
Powered entirely by volunteers
Every device we build is the work of volunteers who generously give their time, skills, and expertise. Meet our Board of Directors and the wider volunteer community that makes this work possible.
PARTNERS & FUNDERS
Made possible by their generous support
