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Nonprofits call on AT&T for helpBy James Edward Mills
In 2005, the AT&T Foundation, the charitable subsidiary of telecommunications giant AT&T, awarded about $55,000 in Excelerator grants to Dane County nonprofits to upgrade communications technology used to coordinate and deliver services to the needy. "There are a variety of things that we're able to provide funding (for) to help these organizations complete their mission," said Kristen Cogswell, AT&T director of external affairs in Wisconsin. "Nonprofits look for assistance from us for training, computers, hardware, software ... access to the Internet, higher speed connectivity. Organizations are looking to become more efficient." Because most nonprofits devote the bulk of their financial resources to providing direct services to their clients, technology upgrades often take a back seat. But in the case of the Dane County Rape Crisis Center, an antiquated phone system and no voice mail were making their work more difficult. "When it gets to the point where it's impeding our ability to be there for the people who count on us, we have to invest in technology," said Kelly Anderson, Rape Crisis Center executive director. AT&T responded to the center's need with a donation of $7,000. Anderson said the gift of improved phone service will help her organization better meet clients' needs. "There are already so many barriers to rape victims, sexual abuse victims who want help. The last thing we want as a barrier is not being able to reach their counselor," Anderson said. "The more communication, the more accessible we are, the better (our clients) can communicate with us, the better the process will be for them." AT&T Foundation spokesman Eric Hausken said the Excelerator grant program was developed with the help of feedback from nonprofits that recognized communication tools could help improve their outreach capability and capacity. "Nonprofits all over the place are using these tools to make their work easier or more efficient, to reach more people or provide more services," Hausken said. "Technology remains a priority as a tool to help improve lives and improve communities." Excelerator grant recipients Boys and Girls Club of Janesville, $4,000 For laptop computers with wireless capability, and a scanner to increase functionality and service outreach to disadvantaged youth served by the club at two elementary schools. Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups, $10,000 For software upgrades and the purchase of equipment that will allow for greater service outreach to both seniors and CWAG advocates for seniors, and to provide legal services and resources. Madison Area Literacy Council, $8,000 For computer hardware, high-speed Internet connection and computer networking to provide computer literacy training services to adults and families. Madison Children's Museum, $6,000 For technology upgrades to more efficiently and effectively manage data and encourage learning through play to better serve clients. Rock County Habitat for Humanity, $6,000 For computer upgrades and a network server to allow multiple users to access files simultaneously and securely, as well as to improve the organization's Web site to provide greater service outreach. Voluntary Action Center (VAC), $4,000 For an interactive Web site and high-speed Internet connection that will enable greater online functionality to users. Wisconsin Council of the Blind, $10,000 To support the purchase of portable laptop computers, software upgrades, and wireless capability to enable mobile functionality, which will allow greater service outreach. jmills@madison.com madison.com ©2009 Capital Newspapers. All rights reserved. |
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