Sir Wilfrid Laurier Foundation donates $15,000 to provide laptops for students with dyslexia
The Sir Wilfrid Laurier Foundation has donated $15,000 to the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board (SWLSB) to help purchase laptop bundles for students with dyslexia, while the school board also recognized Foundation President Archie Cifelli for his years of volunteer leadership and community service.
The donation was presented during the SWLSB Council of Commissioners meeting on June 25.
Technology to support student success
According to the Foundation, the contribution will fund approximately 16 laptop bundles. Each package includes a laptop computer, backpack, headset and computer mouse.
The equipment will be distributed based on individual student needs across the school board, allowing students with dyslexia to use the technology both at school and at home.
“The Foundation’s impact extends far beyond a single event,” said James Di Sano, Chairperson of the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board. “This generous donation will help provide students with dyslexia access to tools that support their learning and remove barriers to success.”
Di Sano also thanked the Foundation’s board members and community supporters for their continued investment in public education.
Archie Cifelli recognized for years of leadership
During the same meeting, the Council of Commissioners surprised Archie Cifelli with a special recognition highlighting his longstanding involvement with the Foundation.
Cifelli has served the Foundation for many years, first as vice-president and now as president of its board of directors.
In his remarks, Di Sano described Cifelli as a mentor, friend and dedicated community leader whose work has benefited students throughout the school board.
“He never seeks recognition,” Di Sano said during the ceremony. “The Foundation and, more importantly, our students have benefited greatly from his generosity and leadership.”
The recognition highlighted Cifelli’s role in supporting Foundation initiatives and providing professional expertise whenever needed.
Foundation continues to expand its impact
According to the Foundation, the donation follows another successful fundraising year. Earlier this month, nearly 300 guests attended its annual Lobster Gala at Château Royal, generating almost $34,000 in net proceeds.
The Foundation said the funds raised will continue supporting initiatives such as multisensory equipment purchases, technology for students with learning differences and its long-running Citizenship Bursary Program.
“The generosity of our community continues to amaze us,” said Archie Cifelli, President of the Sir Wilfrid Laurier Foundation. “Thanks to our supporters, we can continue investing in initiatives that make a real difference in the lives of students, whether through multisensory equipment, technology for learners with dyslexia, or our Citizenship Bursary Program.”
Founded in 2004, the Sir Wilfrid Laurier Foundation supports educational, cultural, artistic, recreational and athletic initiatives throughout the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board, which serves Laval, the Laurentians and Lanaudière.
According to the Foundation, it has contributed more than $1 million to schools, centres and students since its creation, including more than $350,000 through its Citizenship Bursary Program.
