Donka, Inc. Expands Free Computer Training for Senior Citizens with Generous Grant from DuPage Foundation
Donka Inc received a $10,000 grant from the DuPage Foundation to support computer training for senior citizens using assistive technology. The grant was presented at the DuPage Foundation's Spring Grant Awards Breakfast on June 22, at Glen Oak Country Club in Glen Ellyn. The DuPage Foundation awarded grants to 30 non-profit and five local collaboratives in DuPage County.
"This grant will help fund our initiative to assist in teaching more seniors how to use computers and go online," said Leanne Vos, Executive Director of Donka. "We know there are many benefits for older people who use computers, however, they also face many challenges in getting started. Our training is tailored to helping them learn in the way they are most comfortable and with assistive devices when necessary."
Benefits of computer use for older adults especially those living in assisted living facilities include:
• Increased socialization
• Decreased depression
• Stimulation of brain health
• Added sense of purpose
The free training will be offered at area assisted living facilities that have computer labs for residents to use with access to Wi-Fi. The goal is to teach accessibility tool usage to seniors to maximize their ability to use the computer with independence.
Some of the accessibility tools offered by Donka include: screen magnification software, alternative keyboards, trackballs, reading tools that include software that can speak the text. Donka instructors are also well-versed in teaching the accessibility features offered by Microsoft Windows, iPads, and on smart phones.
The grant will also help expand the free training offered by Donka to residents of the DuPage Convalescent Center where its main lab is located. Donka's lab has computers featuring the latest assistive technology programs and tools.
"There are so many dedicated people working harder than ever these days in our not-for-profit organizations to ensure that critical services are available for those who are in need in our community," said Barb Szczepaniak, DuPage Foundation vice president for programs. "Unfortunately, funding resources have dwindled at a time when they are most needed. The Foundation is pleased to provide overall grant funding at an increased level this year to these well-deserving organizations to help them better serve their clients who depend on their support and services."
About Donka
Donka offers computer, assistive technology, and job readiness services to people of all ages with physical, visual, and limited learning disabilities at no or very low cost. The center is known for its personalized curriculum tailored to the needs of the student. This training helps students become more independent and self-sufficient.
Established in 1987, Donka is a 501(c)(3) organization that is open to students throughout the Chicagoland area whose ages range from those just completing high school to senior citizens. They start Donka's program at different computer skill levels but they all have one thing in common: a powerful desire to learn and reach their personal goals.
Many graduates of Donka's computer training program have gone on to secure jobs which, in turn, has helped them gain financial independence and increased self-sufficiency. High school and college-age students benefit from the individualized instructor attention they may not receive in larger classes.
For more information about Donka, please visit http://www.donkainc.org/ or call 630-665-8169.
About the DuPage Foundation
The DuPage Foundation seeks to raise the quality of life throughout DuPage County by fostering philanthropy, connecting donors to area needs and building community partnerships. Based on the American virtues of volunteerism and philanthropy, the Foundation fosters a legacy of support for the people of DuPage County by making grants to not-for-profit organizations working in the areas of Arts and Culture, Education, the Environment, Health, and Human Services. Since its inception, the Foundation has built its endowment to approximately $64 million and awarded more than $26 million in grants to not-for-profit agencies serving the residents of DuPage County and beyond.
Established in 1986, the DuPage Foundation is a publicly-supported 501(c)(3) organization to which contributions are tax deductible. It was created to benefit the people of DuPage County and receives contributions and bequests into a permanent endowment from individuals, corporations, organizations and foundations wishing to make lasting contributions to the people of DuPage. The earnings on these funds are then used, in accordance with donor wishes, for the Foundation's grantmaking and community leadership activities.
For more information about the Foundation, or to arrange future media opportunities, please contact William Pearch, Marketing Manager, at 630-598-5290 or bill@dupagefoundation.org.