Neurodiversity & Inclusive Systems
Equity-Informed Focus
Strength-based design
Highlighting creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills neurodivergent youth contribute.
Accessible co-research
Designing sensory-friendly engagement methods shaped by lived experience.
Community accountability
Guided by neurodivergent advisors and family networks to ensure relevance.
Community accountability
Guided by neurodivergent advisors and family networks to ensure relevance.
Project Overview
Skillcity Institute’s neurodiversity programs Edmonton initiative guided by the “United Way Grant Skillcity Neurodiversity Research” builds equity-informed support systems that honour neurodivergent youth voices, families, and community stakeholders.
Core Purpose
Investigate barriers and co-design solutions that make schools, workplaces, and community programming more inclusive for autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, and otherwise neurodivergent youth.
Equity-Centered Inquiry
Community-Based Research
Our team blends qualitative interviews, accessible surveys, and creative expression sessions in sensory-considerate environments to surface lived experiences.
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Co-facilitated by neurodivergent researchers.
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Multi-language support across Edmonton communities.
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Stipends and care budgets to reduce barriers.
Key Program Components
These interconnected streams advance inclusive education Alberta and support for neurodivergent youth from research to policy influence.
Primary Data Collection
Gather narratives, sensory maps, and solution ideas directly from neurodivergent youth and families through accessible interviews and creative labs.
Equity-Informed Support Framework
Co-create a scaffold of inclusive practices that align accommodations, sensory-friendly environments, and policy commitments.
Knowledge Mobilization & Dialogues
Share findings through accessible reports, podcasts, and community dialogues that inspire action in schools and workplaces.
Project Timeline · 2024 – 2026
PHASE 1 · 2024
Cultural Celebration & Community Dialogues
Launch the “Embracing Neurodiversity, Bridging Cultures” celebration at We Rock The Spectrum (November 2, 2024 · 4:00–7:00 PM) with free entry, food, and performances. Facilitate cultural dialogues, create an inventory of culturally responsive services, and elevate ethnocultural diversity within neurodiverse networks.
PHASE 2 · 2025
Primary Research & Data Collection
Analyze support systems for neurodiverse racialized individuals, co-develop an equity-informed framework for service providers, document strengths and challenges, and produce policy recommendations for cultural inclusivity.
PHASE 3 · 2026
Knowledge Mobilization
Disseminate insights to project participants, decision makers, community influencers, and the wider neurodiverse community through dialogues, reports, and collaborative action planning.
Measurable Goals
Tracking impact ensures sustainable support for neurodivergent youth and families while influencing inclusive education Alberta systems.
Increase understanding of barriers
Document intersectional challenges through 150+ participant engagements and produce accessible findings that inform service delivery.
Co-design practical support tools
Launch a digital and print framework with sensory-friendly practices, peer mentorship models, and educator training modules.
Influence inclusive policy
Deliver policy briefs to school boards, employers, and municipal leaders to embed neurodiversity-informed accommodations.
2021 and 2022 Report & Snapshot
View the full reports and snapshots from 2021 and 2022 below:
2021 Report & Snapshot
2022 Report & Snapshot
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Partner With Us
Collaborate on funding, policy, or service integration that advances inclusive education Alberta.