Donka Inc. gets grant from Disabled Veterans National Foundation to support Operation Brighter Futures
Donka Inc. in Wheaton recently received a $22,000 grant from the Disabled Veterans National Foundation.
This generous funding will support Operation Brighter Futures, an innovative outreach and education initiative designed to provide veterans with disabilities comprehensive computer training using assistive and adaptive technology, job skills training, placement assistance, and essential support services to help them gain employment or pursue further education.
Operation Brighter Futures offers a tailored approach to each veteran’s unique goals and aspirations. Participants can choose between two personalized tracks:
Full certification course:
• Approved by the Illinois Private Business and Vocational Schools Division of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.
• Includes 100 hours of computer/assistive technology training, covering Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook), internet and email, and file management.
Modified track:
• Designed for veterans currently employed or seeking employment who need a more flexible schedule.
• Includes 40 to 50 hours of customized training focused on essential skills such as email, internet usage, online job applications, resume and cover letter writing, and basic word processing.
Donka’s approach begins with a comprehensive assessment of each veteran’s skills and goals, ensuring training is paced to meet individual needs. The program maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio, with classes limited to one or two students per instructor, providing personalized attention and support.
“This generous grant will allow us to continue providing individualized training and job placement services at no cost to those who selflessly served our country,” said Leanne Vos, executive director of Donka. “Disabled veterans often face significant challenges in securing employment, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and exclusion. With our primary service area covering DuPage, Kane, Cook, and Will counties, home to one of the highest veteran populations in Illinois, we know our services are greatly needed.”
Donka stands out as the only organization in this region offering computer training with assistive technology through a low student-teacher ratio (1:1 or 2:1), with a curriculum customized for each student. Upon graduation, students are proficient in operating a computer independently with assistive technology and possess valuable Microsoft Office skills essential for work and education, including Windows, Word, Excel, Outlook, and Explorer. Graduates are prepared to seek employment, continue their education, or use their new skills for personal and social enrichment.
Joseph VanFonda, a retired U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Major and CEO of the Disabled Veterans National Foundation, added, “We are proud to support Donka Inc. and their commitment to empowering disabled veterans through comprehensive computer training and job placement services. Operation Brighter Futures aligns perfectly with our mission to provide essential support to our veterans, helping them achieve their career and educational goals. This grant will ensure that veterans in DuPage, Kane, Cook, and Will counties have access to the resources they need to succeed in the next chapter of their lives.”
About the Disabled Veterans National Foundation
Disabled Veterans National Foundation exists to provide critically needed support to disabled and at-risk veterans who leave the military wounded — physically or psychologically — after defending our safety and our freedom.
The foundation achieves this mission by:
• Offering direct financial support to veteran organizations that address the unique needs of veterans, and whose missions align with that of DVNF.
• Providing supplemental assistance to homeless and low-income veterans through the Health & Comfort program and various empowerment resources.
• Providing an online resource database that allows veterans to navigate the complex process of seeking benefits that they are entitled to as a result of their military service, as well as additional resources they need.
• Serving as a thought leader on critical policy issues within the veteran community and educating the public accordingly.
About Donka Inc.
Donka Inc. is on a mission of empowering lives for persons with disabilities through technology.
Highly personalized programs achieve this mission by:
• Assessing each person’s skills and goals in order to tailor learning individual needs
• Comprehensive computer training with the assistive technology and/or adaptive devices needed. Class size is limited to one or two students per instructor to pace learning appropriately.
• Job placement services to facilitate the development of immediately useful skills for today’s job market and higher education.
Donka, founded in January 1987, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.