Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a device?
Choose a device from the Device Library. You can either build the device yourself — click download to access the free build instructions — or you can request our community of volunteer makers to build one for you, simply click create request to connect with a volunteer maker. Learn more about requesting a device.
Can you create a custom device for me?
At this time, we do not have the capacity to take on custom projects. However, you can submit an idea for our community of volunteer makers to help develop. The following organizations may also be able to help with custom projects:
How much does my device cost?
You can find an estimated material cost on each device page.
When you request a device through the device library, you only cover the costs for materials and shipping. After submitting your device request, you can discuss the estimated costs with your volunteer maker through the chat feature before committing to the request.
How do I chat with my volunteer maker?
In the top right corner, click profile to locate your device request. Click onto the page and scroll to the bottom to find the chat screen. You will receive an email notification when someone responds.
Do I need a referral from a healthcare professional to get a device?
No referrals needed! You can request any assistive device that you feel would help you in your life (or request on behalf of someone who could use a device).
Which areas do you serve?
You can request a device from our assistive library from anywhere in the world. Please note that availability of volunteer makers to respond to requests may vary depending on where you’re located.
Our team also handles some device deliveries, however at this time, devices distributed by our team can only be delivered in Canada.
Can you help me find the right solution from the Devices Library?
Yes, we’d be happy to help! Please reach out to us at info@makersmakingchange.com.
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Personal Projects
- Do you provide technical advice on personal projects?
- How do I share a device I've developed to the Device Library?
- Can you provide ideas for my capstone project?
- Can I sell items from the Device Library?
General Building
- Where can I find the device files and build instructions?
- How do I modify a design?
- What skills/tools are useful and how do I help?
- How do I search for device requests based on location and tools required?
General Volunteering
Do you provide technical advice on personal projects?
While we would like to provide technical guidance on all projects shared with us, we simply don’t have the capacity with our small team. We highly recommend posting to the ATMakers Facebook group where you'll get helpful tips from makers and users. Also check out the OpenAT Design Guide and MMC resources page.
How do I share a device I've developed to the Device Library?
You can submit your open-source design for consideration. We also have the OpenAT guide to make it easier for other makers to build your designs.
Can you provide ideas for my capstone project?
Check out our Design Challenges! Many of these community-submitted ideas could make for excellent capstone projects.
Can I sell items from the Device Library?
Each device listing specifies its license type. While all devices in the library are open-source, not all licenses permit commercial use. Please review and respect the licenses specified by the designer before selling, distributing, or using a device commercially.
Where can I find the device files and build instructions?
Login to your account and navigate to the Device Library. Click “download” on the device page to access the files. Some files may auto-download while others may redirect you to another platform, depending how the original designer has shared it.
How do I modify a design?
Please check the device's license type first to see if modifications are permitted. Devices created by the Makers Making team are designed to be as open as possible while still providing some protection through open-source licensing. Please respect the licensing of all designs in the Devices Library, regardless of the chosen license terms.
How do I search for device requests based on location and tools required?
At the top of the Maker Wanted page, select from the country, state/province, and skills dropdown menus.
What skills/tools are useful and how do I help?
Having access to the following tools and a basic understanding of how to use them can be helpful:
- 3D printer
- Soldering iron
- Hand tools (like screwdriver, wirestripper, etc.)
See all the ways you can help as a volunteer maker.
Do I need to be part of a chapter to volunteer?
No, you don't need to be part of a chapter to volunteer.
I don’t have a 3D printer. Can I still volunteer?
Yes, we have different roles and opportunities available.
- Become a volunteer designer and take on a design challenges
- Participate in an upcoming event where all the tools and parts will be provided
Why is the 3D Print Jobs volunteer opportunity limited to Canada only?
We limit the 3D Print Job volunteering opportunity to Canada only because we don’t want volunteers to cover the high cost of shipping across the border. Instead, we encourage volunteers to take on local requests on the Maker Wanted page.
Can I volunteer in a way that’s not listed above?
Please reach out to info@neilsquire.ca to discuss further.
My device stopped working. What do I do now?
Please contact us at info@makersmakingchange.com. In your message, please include details about what’s not working and the situation when it stopped working as expected. We’ll take it from there, and our team or a volunteer will reach out to you.
Do devices come with warranty?
No, we do not provide warranty as devices are built by volunteer makers, and the costs only cover the expenses they incur building them. For issues with devices, please email us at info@makersmakingchange.com, and we will help you troubleshoot your device.
Can I use the devices to operate my powerchair or activate an emergency call bell?
Do not use volunteer-built devices for mobility and mobility control (such as a power wheelchair, wheelchair joysticks, or ride-in toy vehicle), emergency response applications actions (such as an emergency call bell), or any other use related to mobility control, emergency response or safety applications. Remember, these devices have been built by volunteers and you’re responsible for how you choose to use the device as per our Terms of Use.
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Events and Community
Can MMC host a build event with my school or workplace?
Yes! If you're located in Canada, express your interest for your K-12 school or workplace.
Can I invite MMC to a conference or meetup?
Email the event details to us for consideration. Please note that at this time, we aren’t able to attend events outside of Canada.
Are there volunteers chapters near me?
See our current list of chapter locations. If you are interested in connecting, please reach out to info@makersmakingchange.com and we will connect you with the chapter leader.
Are there employment opportunities with the Makers Making Change team?
Keep an eye out on the Neil Squire employment opportunities page for positions with the Makers Making Change team.
How can I donate?
Thank you for your generosity! To give online, please visit our CanadaHelps.org page. Consider donating to our Hacking for the Holidays campaign as we aim to adapt and deliver 2,000 toys and switches to kids with disabilities for the holiday season.
If you have any questions about how to donate or how your donation will be used, please contact Chad Leaman (Director of Innovation) at chadl@neilsquire.ca.
To donate equipment or materials, please email us and we will connect with the appropriate team member.
Where can I find the devices I've requested, submitted, or volunteered for?
Click your profile (top right) to find the devices you've requested, submitted, and volunteered to build for.
How do I edit my account details?
Click on your profile icon (top right) > profile > edit your details > save
Help! I'm locked out of my account.
Email us and include the email associated with your previous account.
I forgot my password. How do I reset it?
Reset your password and follow the link in the password reset email. If you don’t receive the email after a few minutes, check your spam folder.
How do I delete my account?
Email us to submit a deletion request.
Can't find the answers you need? Email us at info@makersmakingchange.com or complete the form below.