Earlier this year, Renewed Computer Technology (RCT) worked with Dani Toronto — Dani Toronto got 30 laptops to split between staff needs and their new STEP (Skills Training Employment Program). What followed was nothing short of transformative.
For Dani Toronto’s staff, including campus directors and program leadership, having dedicated laptops for the first time revolutionized how they work. It meant moving away from sharing outdated e-books and a single desktop, and towards a new level of efficiency. Even better, their older devices were passed on to participants with developmental disabilities, expanding access to technology across the organization.
One of the more unexpected and inspiring stories came through something as simple as a keyboard. Dani Toronto staff noticed that some participants with disabilities had difficulty typing due to fine motor challenges. The solution? A “keyguard” — a plastic overlay that allows users to press one key at a time without errors. Normally, these tools are costly and designed for very specific computer models.
Dani Toronto partnered with Makers Making Change to design and 3D-print customized keyguards at no cost. This innovation has allowed many participants who previously needed staff support to type independently for the very first time — a powerful step towards independence.
By connecting with Makers Making Change, Dani Toronto also received a micro-grant to launch a 3D printing club. Soon, their participants will be learning engineering concepts, experimenting with design, and even creating adaptive devices to make daily life more accessible.
Many participants entered the STEP without ever having access to their own computer. The technology stream of the program has become so popular that it’s now the focus of STEP this semester.
From empowering staff, to enabling independence through something as simple as a keyboard, to sparking entirely new programs, the donation has had a ripple effect far beyond what anyone expected. The story of Dani Toronto shows how technology, when placed in the right hands, can transform lives in countless ways.