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How It Works

Build an Assistive Device

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Build an Assistive Device


Building a device for others is a great way to volunteer your skills and tools. All designs from the Assistive Devices Library include assembly instructions, design files, a bill of materials, and other documents to help you successfully build the devices.

Step 1: Create an Account


Sign up for a Makers Making Change account.
Screenshot of the Makers Making Change log in screen

Step 2: Volunteer for a Request


Browse the Maker Wanted page for requests that have not been taken on by a volunteer. Makers can select based on the device complexity, tools required, and location.

To take on a request, click on the request to see more details, and then click I Can Make This.

To receive email notifications when a device requests pops up in your country or Province/State (Canada and US only), go to your Profile > Update User Details > toggle on "I would like receive emails for new device requests in my region" > Save.

Note: Makers can only volunteer for requests in their same country to keep shipping and materials costs low.
Screenshot of the Maker Wanted page on the Makers Making Change website.

Step 3: Chat With the Requester


You can message the requester using the chat feature at the bottom of the request page. You can confirm details like expected material and shipping costs, timeline, and any custom changes before you begin building.

Come back to your build by going to My Profile > My Requests and My Builds.
Screenshot of the maker's chat with the requester, on the request page for a LipSync.

Step 4: Get Reimbursed


When you've completed building the device, click Mark Request as Built and then coordinate with the requester how you will get the device to them and how they will reimburse you for the material and shipping costs (if applicable).

We recommend using Interac e-TransferPayPal, or Venmo so only an email or user handle is exchanged.
Screenshot showing a request for a LipSync from the maker perspective, with the cursor on a button that says "Mark Request as Built".

Step 5: Send Device


If you are shipping the device, package the device for delivery and send! Then, go to the build request and click Mark Request as Shipped. The requester will mark their request as Received when they get the device.

You can let others makers know how the build process was for you by leaving a review on the device page.
A pair of hands packaging up a cardboard box.