It is that time of year again, and I know that everyone is anxious about where this economy is going. It’s hard to write a fundraising post when that anxiety exists. But we still have an opportunity to make a difference so, skip the Starbucks and scrounge around in the seat cushions of the couch for that spare change. Valour IT is kicking off the annual fundraiser, running now through Thanksgiving.
The Valour IT fundraiser is a blog run event, you will only see these “blegs” coming to you through the web.
What is Valour IT? Well it is the only technology based assistance program, that I know of, that provides voice operated laptops to wounded troops that may not be able to use a computer in any other way. Recently the program has expanded as you will note:
Every cent raised for Project Valour-IT goes directly to the purchase and shipment of laptops and other technology for severely wounded service members. As of November 2008, Valour-IT has distributed over 2700 laptops to severely wounded Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines across the country, and is now expanding its mission to include other technology that supports physical and psychological recovery.
Valour-IT accepts donations in any amount to support our mission, but also offers a sponsorship option for laptops. An individual or organization may sponsor a wounded soldier by completely funding the cost of a laptop and continuing to provide that soldier with personal support and encouragement throughout recovery. This has proved to be an excellent project for churches, groups of coworkers or friends, and members of community organizations such Boy Scouts.
Originally Valour-IT provided the voice-controlled software that accompanies the laptops, but now works closely with the Department of Defense Computer/electronic Accommodations Program (CAP): CAP supplies the adaptive software and Valour-IT provides the laptop. In addition, DoD caseworkers serve as Valour-IT’s “eyes and ears” at several medical centers, identifying patients in need of laptops and other technological support for their recovery.
Being a bit on the geeky side, and a Marine this program hits a sweet spot for me. So click that button up there on the left header, and let’s get this program underway. If you have a corporate matching program get out there and bring that weapon to bear as well.