The Heritage Community Foundation presented a grant March 16 to Helene Prokesch, Executive Director, and Jackelyn Lamb, Lekotek Leader of the Southside location, of Lekotek of Georgia, Inc.
The $1,800 grant will be used to purchase new technology called an eye gaze system. The eye gaze system makes it possible for children who have difficulty using their hands to operate a computer by directing their eyes. A camera attached to the computer tracks the child’s pupils and simply by looking the child can move the cursor and use the computer.
Lekotek of Georgia currently owns one eye gaze system; however, it is shared among six sites. This grant will allow Lekotek to purchase a system to be used solely at the Southside location in Peachtree City.
The word “Lekotek” comes from the Swedish word “lek” meaning play, and the Greek suffix “tek” meaning library. Lekotek is based on a Scandinavian model of early intervention and special education. Loosely translated, Lekotek means “play library.” Since December 1983, Lekotek of Georgia has provided program services to more than 5,500 families. Approximately 72 families are currently being serviced at the Peachtree City location. The heart of Lekotek is the play session for children aged 0 to 12, with Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, hearing and/or visual impairments, language delays, chronic and/or terminal illnesses, and genetic disorders. Lekotek leaders, who have degrees in special education, model the use of adapted toys and equipment, educational materials, and computers to meet the needs of each child. Hour-long sessions facilitate interactive play among family members and emphasize the child’s success through the creative use of modified toys and technology. Most children who come to Lekotek stay for 7 or 8 years.
For more information on how you can help the community by being a part of the Foundation, call executive director Rocky Davis at 770-478-8881.
Heritage Community Foundation (HCF) is a 501c3 organization which provides funding to local nonprofit organizations in Clayton, Henry, and Fayette counties. The bank absorbs all of the operating costs of the foundation, so 100 percent of the funds raised go directly to meet community needs.
