CanAssist technology helps local barista work independently

Break barriers, build belonging

Despite talent, drive and ambition, many individuals with disabilities still encounter barriers in the workplace. However, when Coco Café, a Vancouver Island café dedicated to creating opportunities for those with developmental disability, connected with CanAssist at the University of Victoria (UVic), one of those barriers began to fall.

With a mission to address the unmet needs of people, particularly those with physical and developmental disabilities, the CanAssist team at UVic builds tailored assistive technologies to increase the independence, health and well-being of those with special needs.

At CanAssist, we create innovative, customized solutions that remove barriers and open opportunities across our three pillars: Employment, Education, and Health & Well-being. When no market option exists, we design practical ways for people to participate fully in their communities.”

— Carolina G. Cortés, executive director of CanAssist at UVic.

On Oct. 24, the team at Coco Café will receive recognition via a celebratory proclamation for their ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion in the workplace during a visit from Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, the Honorable Sheila Malcolmson.

For Colin, a barista at Coco Café, all it took was one piece of CanAssist’s customized assistive technologies to boost his confidence and independence. With support from Coco Café’s Marc Taschereau and his job coach, Colin was connected to CanAssist’s technology team. Using a person-centered approach, CanAssist collaborated with Colin and the Coco Cafe’s team to develop a tailored solution to fit Colin’s work environment.

“By centering individuals like Colin in our process, we ensure every solution truly meets their needs. Colin’s success reflects what CanAssist stands for; empowering people to work, learn, and live with greater independence and inclusion,” says Cortés.

Together, they developed a simple and efficient reading assistant that converts text from order tickets into speech, allowing Colin to read and fulfill orders without assistance from his colleagues. Colin and other team members can now scan the tickets, hear the order through a wireless headset, and prepare orders accurately.

I’ve been able to read specialty drink orders without help. I’m glad this device was made for me and has been a huge help. The device has allowed me to be able to read the ticket orders all by myself. That feels pretty good!” — Colin, Barista at Coco Café.

Learn more about CanAssist’s initiative here.