Lowell Association for the Blind receives $10G grant

WESTFORD — The Lowell Association for the Blind (LAB) received a $10,000 grant to be used to buy new computer workstations, accessible software and accessories.

LAB — a nonprofit dedicated to working with the blind and visually impaired — will use the equipment in its Senior Teen Employment Program (STEP) computer training sessions, according to a press release from the Greater Lowell Community Foundation, which worked to provide the grant.

“The use of this technology, assistive support accessories and the opportunity to explore the work of tech will be an invaluable resource for our teens who are blind and visually impaired,” LAB Executive Director Elizabeth Cannon said in the release.

The grant was provided through GLCF’s Center for Business Philanthropy, in partnership with Juniper Networks, which the release states is “a leader in secure, AI-driven networks.”

The grant program is intended to build relationships with nonprofit organizations and engage employees in learning about volunteer opportunities in Greater Lowell, according to the release.

“At the Greater Lowell Community Foundation, our mission has always been to improve the quality of life for the people in the communities we serve by connecting donors with nonprofits that serve causes that matter to them,” said GLCF President and CEO Jay Linnehan. “Working with Juniper Networks to bring philanthropy into the workplace in order to further deepen their community relationship has been a rewarding experience.”

The decision to provide the grant to LAB was made after a team of local Juniper Network employees sought to support an organization that served youth by providing technology support.

GLCF provided guidance in the decision-making process by establishing needs in the community and how local nonprofit organizations are addressing these needs.

“Juniper Networks is committed to driving positive change in our local communities and aligning our charitable efforts with our mission to connect everything and empower everyone,” Sally Bament, vice president of marketing at Juniper Networks, said in the release. “In partnership with the Greater Lowell Community Foundation, it is our pleasure to support the Lowell Association for the Blind by bringing technology to those who would not otherwise have the means or access.”

For more about GLCF, visit glcfoundation.org or call 978-970-1600.

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