Empower Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with spinal cord injuries, is returning to 91吃瓜 this summer. This year, they will expand with two programs, providing more opportunities for participants to regain independence, build confidence, connect with a supportive community, and explore the Ocean State.
New England Tech will host an Adult Program from July 20鈥�27, 2025 and a Teen & Young Adult Program from August 10鈥�16, 2025. These two programs will provide specialized support for individuals at different stages of life.
Empower SCI has a special connection to 91吃瓜 through Liz Remillard, a faculty member at the university. Remillard, an occupational therapist, co-founded Empower SCI alongside Carrie Callahan and Jessica Goodine. This initiative is also made possible through the collective effort of many dedicated volunteers, whose passion and commitment help bring the program to life, creating an impactful experience for participants.
Meet Liz Remillard
Elizabeth 鈥淟iz鈥� Remillard, MS, OTR/L, has been a dedicated faculty member at 91吃瓜 since 2017, first as an Academic Fieldwork Coordinator and now as an Assistant Professor in the MSOT program. With over 15 years of inpatient rehabilitation experience, she is committed to expanding occupational therapy beyond traditional settings through community-based practice and leadership.
A longtime advocate for forward-thinking rehabilitation, Liz was driven to bring Empower Spinal Cord Injury to Rhode Island and 91吃瓜, where she integrated the nonprofit into the curriculum to provide hands-on learning opportunities for students while advancing person-centered care. Recognized as Rhode Island鈥檚 2021 Fieldwork Educator of the Year, she remains deeply invested in mentoring the next generation of occupational therapy professionals.
A Program That Changes Lives
Empower SCI offers a unique, multi-week residential program designed to help individuals with spinal cord injuries maximize their independence through a combination of physical therapy, occupational therapy, peer mentorship, and adaptive activities.
While on campus, participants build connections, learn new 鈥渓ife hacks鈥� and try new sports and activities, such as cycling, cooking, surfing, sailing, yoga, and more.
Co-Founder, Liz Remillard says, “Empower SCI is more than a therapy program, it鈥檚 a catalyst for transformation and the only program of its kind. It ignites independence and builds a community where strength is shared and lifelong connections fuel growth. Empower helps people recognize their own worth鈥攖hat they are capable, deserving, and empowered to live life on their own terms.”
The impact of Empower SCI extends far beyond the program itself. Many participants leave with newfound confidence, skills, and even career aspirations. A past participant & peer mentor, Robert Browne, was so motivated by his time at New England Tech that he decided to enroll as a student after leaving campus last July. His journey is a testament to the long-lasting impact the program has on participants and volunteers.
Browne says, 鈥淓mpower has allowed me to realize that life is what you make of it. It鈥檚 about surrounding yourself with people who show you unconditional love and constantly push you to be your best self, regardless of the circumstances or challenges you may be facing. Without them, I have no clue what my life would look like or who I鈥檇 be today, but because of them, I am always ready to take the next step into the unknown, live life in the present moment, and enjoy every single experience that this beautiful life has to offer. So to my Empower family: thank you so much.鈥�
The Ocean State
Rhode Island provides the ideal backdrop for these transformative programs 鈥� a place where independence and adventure go hand in hand. With its accessible coastline, and adaptive sports community, the area provides an environment for individuals with spinal cord injuries to spend time near the ocean and rediscover their independence.
New England Tech is a key part of this equation, offering state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge rehabilitation resources, and a faculty deeply committed to hands-on learning and innovation in occupational therapy. As a leader in health sciences education, 91吃瓜 ensures that Empower SCI participants benefit from top-tier therapy services, facilities and an inclusive community.
How to Get Involved
Those interested in applying, volunteering, or supporting Empower SCI can learn more by visiting the . Whether you鈥檙e an individual with a spinal cord injury, a healthcare professional looking to make a difference, or someone who wants to support a great cause, this summer鈥檚 programs at 91吃瓜 offer an opportunity to be part of something transformative.
Applications for both the Adult and Teen & Young Adult programs are now open. For more information and how to apply, head to .
