Area Lions clubs donate almost $60,000 in new technology to the SC School for the Deaf and the Blind
April 6, 2015
GREENVILLE, SC – Area Lions clubs have donated almost $60,000 in new technology to the SC School for the Deaf and the Blind. The equipment will be used to increase independence and academic success for students who are blind or visually impaired.
The new technology includes:
- GPS devices for moving around the community independently
- Hand-held electronic magnifiers for trips to the grocery store, reading menus, and more
- Audible productivity devices to take notes, keep track of appointments, email, read eBooks, enlarge print, and print braille documents
- An electronic video magnifier with settings to suit individual needs including various colors and backgrounds
All of the equipment is specifically designed to meet the needs of individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
The technology was donated through the school’s fundraising arm, The Walker Foundation. District 32-A Lions clubs raised $28,488 and assisted The Walker Foundation in obtaining a matching grant through the Lions Club International Foundation.
“The students at the SC School for the Deaf and the Blind have a special place in our hearts,” said Thurman Anderson, president of the Spartanburg Lions Club. “We see how these children rise to the challenge and accomplish many wonderful things. We are glad to be a part of this gift that will greatly increase the independence and quality of life for the students.”
“The Lions are making a big difference here at the school and in the lives of our students,” said Ann Akerman, chief executive officer of The Walker Foundation. “I’m reminded of that difference every time I see a Lion selling candy, working at the fair, or participating in other community activities.”
The Lions have a long history with the SC School for the Deaf and the Blind beginning with a 1933 Christmas party for the students. Ever since 1933, the Lions have sponsored an annual Christmas party and made donations to the school.
“The Spartanburg Lions Club has been a supporter of the students at the SC School for the Deaf and the Blind for over 70 years,” said Gene Spiess, a member of the Spartanburg Club and past international director of the International Lions Board. “During that time, the lives of hundreds of club members have been changed because of their involvement with the children of the school.”
Founded in 1979 for the sole purpose of working directly with the SC School for the Deaf and the Blind, The Walker Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to securing resources that enable the SC School for the Deaf and the Blind to achieve its mission and goals. For more information, please visit www.walkerfdn.org or call (864) 577-7582.
The SC School for the Deaf and the Blind is the state’s only specialized school for students who are deaf or blind. It offers pre K-12 educational programs on its main campus in Spartanburg and specialized vision and hearing services in school districts and homes throughout the state. For more information, go to www.scsdb.org or call the school’s toll-free number at 1-888-447-2732.
