IBM and Every Child/Every Promise Distribute KidSmart Computers to Local Childcare Centers

DUBUQUE, Iowa--IBM has awarded 10 KidSmart Early Learning computers to Every Child/Every Promise (ECEP), an initiative that works in strategic alliance with the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque, for distribution to local nonprofit childcare centers serving Dubuque’s most at-risk children.
 
The KidSmart computers provide interactive learning activities for pre-kindergarten curricula. Since 2010, IBM has donated a total of 30 KidSmart computers to ECEP, which distributes the units and provides training to childcare centers. Each computer is equipped with software that teaches socialization skills along with some math, science and language skills.
 
Recipient childcare centers for this most recent IBM donation includes Early Learners Child Development, Frog Hollow, Hills and Dales Childcare Center, Prescott Head Start Center, Prodigy Child Development, Romper Stomper Child Care Center and Young-Uns Child Care Center in Dubuque, as well as Aquin’s Little Angels (Cascade), Little Eagles Nest Learning Center (Wyoming), Galena Art and Recreation Center (Galena, Ill.) and two Head Start Centers in Anamosa and Hopkinton.
 
“IBM has been a great partner,” said Eric Dregne, vice president of strategic initiatives. “The generous donation of these computers has been a great asset for preschoolers who might not otherwise have access to such an effective learning tool.”
 
ECEP works to ensure young people in Dubuque receive five promises—Caring Adults, Safe Places, a Healthy Start, Effective Education and Opportunities to Serve. IBM’s award also supports the school readiness focus area of Dubuque’s Campaign for Grade-Level Reading, which is facilitated by ECEP.
 
For more information, contact the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque at 563.588.2700 or visit www.dbqfoundation.org.