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Humana awards $100,000 Chicago Benefits grant to Misericordia Heart of Mercy Center
Nonprofit recognized for services to persons with developmental disabilities
Misericordia Home, a community of care in Chicago for more than 550 children and adults with developmental disabilities, has received a $100,000 grant in the sixth Chicago Benefits program funded by Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM). Misericordia emphasized the transformative value of technology in its educational programs to secure the grant from Humana, one of Chicago's largest providers of health insurance and related benefits.
"We are all thrilled to receive this recognition through the 2008 Chicago Benefits grant. The $100,000 award will help us accelerate a key component of our Developmental Training Department's strategic plan – the addition of a Technology Enabled Learning Center," said Sister Rosemary Connelly, executive director of Misericordia since 1969. "We believe it is imperative for us to enhance our programs, which are already some of the best in the country, to meet the changing needs of our residents through the use of technology. For individuals who are already challenged by delayed opportunities, this is truly a gift of significance."
The mission of Misericordia's Technology Enabled Learning Center is to provide developmental learning opportunities for residents using computer-based technology with core educational concepts including reading, writing, math and money skills. A second area of emphasis will be computer skills training, to include using software and accessing e-mail and the Internet. There have been many new developments in the use of PCs and software to help individuals with developmental disabilities increase their literacy, cognitive skills and socialization. There are also many ways to assist in their employment goals through resume creation, job searches and job applications. The Humana grant will give Misericordia's instructors and service providers access to the latest and most effective resources. In addition, adaptive technology will allow individuals with complex physical limitations to access and manipulate the software.
A panel of local judges, comprised of community leaders, public officials and business representatives, worked with Humana to select Misericordia as the recipient of the $100,000 Chicago Benefits grant, awarded at a celebratory gala on August 7, 2008, at the River East Art Center. The two other Chicago Benefits finalists also received funding. Lifelink was awarded $15,000 as first runner-up, and Pro Se Services was granted $5,000 as Chicago Benefit's second runner-up.
"This program is designed to help organizations who share the principles of improving mind, body and spirit," said Mike Kasper, market president of Humana Illinois and Chicago Benefits co-chair. "Our three finalists each represent a key attribute. Misericordia sharpens the mind of those with disabilities. Lifelink nourishes the body by promoting healthy lifestyles, and Pro Se Services raises the spirit of troubled youth. Together, these contribute to a positive, healthy community."
"Six years ago, Humana's Chicago office decided to develop a charitable program that would make a transformational difference to a nonprofit that's benefiting the community," explained Deborah Gracey, president of Medicare operations in Humana's Great Lakes region. "Over the years, we've received nearly 500 grant applications from Chicago area nonprofits. Each is doing their part to make our city better."
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Copyright
© 2008
Humana
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