Grainger supports Special Connections

Donates $10,000 to aide group’s effort to promote inclusion for those with disabilities

The Grainger Foundation has donated $10,000 to Special Connections of Grundy County.

The monetary gift is in support of Special Connections’ mission to connect people with disabilities with their community through social interactions, education, recreational opportunities, and shared information. Special Connections promotes an environment of inclusion, self-determination and knowledge.

“This grant will be used to support our Special Olympics programs, the recreation/leisure activities we plan throughout the year, and our efforts to educate others about the disability community in our area,” said Kelly Thompson, board member of Special Connections of Grundy County.

“We are also working on a project to bring a Sensory Garden to Grundy County and the grant will help us do this. A sensory garden is a place created for visitors, with and without disabilities, to experience its beauty through feel, smell, sound and sight.   We are grateful to The Grainger Foundation for its generosity.”

Thompson said these programs currently serve individuals with disabilities in Grundy County and the surrounding areas.

“In the past, there was little opportunity for individuals with disabilities of all ages in our area to participate in various leisure and recreation activities, socialize with friends and make new friends. Special Connections was created with the goal of providing these kinds of opportunities within our community.”

This donation was recommended by Tommy Kersting, senior director, distribution, of W.W. Grainger,Inc.’s, Minooka location. Grainger has been a part of the Minooka business community for one year as the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair, and operating products.

“We are proud to recommend the programs offered by Special Connections of Grundy County,” said Kersting. “We understand the need for programs for individuals with disabilities.”

The Grainger Foundation, an independent, private foundation based in Lake Forest, Ill., was established in 1949 by William W. Grainger, founder of W.W. Grainger, Inc.

For further information about Grainger contact Kristen Lawrence, community affairs manager, at kristen.lawrence@grainger.com.

For further information about Special Connections of Grundy County contact Jennifer Price, president of Special Connections of Grundy County, at specialconnections1@gmail.com or (815) 545-3397.