Power Up is a free program designed to help youth living with disabilities understand and access the hidden job market and pursue their job and career goals.
The program is run by the Canadian Abilities Foundation with support from the RBC Foundation.
Power Up includes:
All materials are designed to help participants build disability confidence and reduce job search barriers.
Simply put, Power Up aims to empower young Canadians to tackle employment barriers with new skills and confidence.
Yes. The program was designed and funded to support anyone who feels it would benefit them.
Power Up primarily supports individuals who may or may not be receiving disability benefits, including those living with:
If you have questions about whether the program is right for you, please contact us.
Power Up is divided into 6 easy-to-follow steps that you can work through at your own pace. The online portion is estimated to take 4 hours to complete over a 3 to 4 week period. The coaching and capstone project can add to that depending on how much time you want to dedicate.
Session 1:
15-minute 1-on-1 meeting partway through the online materials.
Session 2:
15-minute 1-on-1 meeting after you complete the capstone project.
Session 3:
30-minute group seminar with approximately 10–15 Power Up participants, featuring a short presentation followed by a Q&A.
The first two sessions will be with the same coach. The seminar may be led by your coach or another Power Up coach.
Your coach will meet with you during your two scheduled 1-on-1 sessions.
If you have questions while working through the program, you can reach out to the Power Up Program Coordinators for assistance.
Yes! Power Up and its materials are all accessible through screen reader applications and devices. If you are experiencing any technical issues, please reach out to the Program Coordinators.
No. Power Up’s capstone project is a personal exercise to put what you’ve learned into practice. Your coach will provide feedback once you’ve submitted your project. You can discuss during your second 1-on-1 session.
Power Up is designed to be flexible and accommodating.
Google Classroom is used to:
The program and coaching are currently funded until the end of 2026. All materials are available online and can be completed at your own pace.
If you need to take a break from the program, please notify your coach and the Program Coordinators. You can also refer to the Program Policies for more information.
Program Coordinators will be available to answer your questions and offer assistance 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday. Please allow for up to 48 hours for an email response.
Phone: +1 (416) 421-7944
Email: powerup@canadianabilities.org
Power Up is supported by:
The Canadian Abilities Foundation envisions an inclusive, diverse accessible society, where all people belong and are valued.
Our mission is to make Canada the most accessible country in the world through awareness building, education and programs.
