GRAND RAPIDS ? The SBC Foundation, the philanthropic arm of SBC Communications, has awarded $552,500 in SBC Excelerator technology grants to 32 nonprofit organizations in Michigan, roughly 10 percent of the $5 million awarded by SBC in its 13-state region.
?These nonprofit organizations make a profound difference in our communities and in the lives of people across Michigan,? said Gail Torreano, president, SBC Michigan. ?Nearly one hundred nonprofit organizations have used SBC Excelerator grants to build their technology capabilities and deliver more services at the local level.?
The 2004 SBC Excelerator grants were awarded to organizations that connect people with little to no access to technology, including at-risk youth, and underserved urban families. The program provides access to important resources in the community, such as Internet access, hands-on computer training, math and reading classes, and job skills programs.
To qualify for an SBC Excelerator grant, an organization?s major focus and project must emphasize education, community development, health and human services, or arts and culture. Grant funds will be applied toward data communications services, hardware, software, technology training, personnel, and application development.
