Stumpf Tech Fund Gives Children Gift Of Learning
For a typical kid, having a computer tablet may mean the difference between spending more screen time looking at social media or not.
For recipients of iPads and related technology paid for by the Corey and Kristy Stumpf Tech for Kids Fund, it may greatly improve their ability to learn.
It all started when Corey received an iPad through work and no one in the family needed one. They decided to donate it and worked through their donor services representative at the Community Foundation, who arranged for it to benefit an Appleton Area School District student who has a severe speech disability.
The Stumpfs received a letter from the boy that said, “Thank you for helping me talk.”
The family had identified their charitable passion.
Their fund in the Community Foundation now buys tablets and other adaptive technology for students with disabilities and economic need in the Kaukauna, Little Chute and Freedom school districts and presents them at ceremonies held annually.
Ella Hameister, a high school-aged student from Kaukauna, received website subscriptions and a keyboard that lights up to help her learn about and create music. She was born with a rare chromosome disorder, causing developmental delays and leaving her unable to speak. Her mother, Ann, said the technology gives Ella a learning opportunity.
“It’s very engaging for her,” Ann said, adding, “I was very impressed with the kindness of the Stumpf family.”
Their fund has awarded more than $25,000 in grants to 40 children over the past four years – young people who can say, “Thank you for helping me learn.”