KANDU Industries Inc. has begun its annual giving campaign for 2021 with the goal of raising $40,000 by December 31, 2021. All proceeds will directly benefit KANDU’s mission to create, promote and provide diverse opportunities offering people with disabilities and disadvantages the ability to pursue greater independence and explore their limitless potential.

Over the years, donor generosity has allowed KANDU to add and expand programs that support the success and empowerment of people with disabilities and disadvantages. Since 2016, 77 people have been successfully employed by local businesses through KANDU‘s Community Employment program where KANDU program managers connect with area businesses in an effort to help identify and develop employment opportunities for persons with barriers to employment. Another 188 people are more empowered from the support of KANDU’s Pre-Vocational Services, a work skills training program for persons who require on-going supervision, training and support.  Participants in KANDU’s Day Services/Memory Care program have spent 56,268 hours in a warm and caring environment.  The program emphasizes improvement in physical, mental and social well-being through expert care and an understanding of each participant’s individual abilities, in addition to providing critical respite for participant caregivers.

“We depend on donor support to fulfill our mission, including the development of programs like our recently launched Daily Living Skills and Livin’ and Learnin’ programs, which provide meaningful, safe and structured guidance to develop the necessary skills to live independently,” said Executive Director Kathy Hansen.  “These vital programs are a direct result of the generosity of our communities and we see the benefits everyday – clients who are now independently using the transit system to get to work and other activities, managing their own grocery shopping, developing cooking skills and more.”

Supporters can visit kanduindustries.com/giving2021 for more information and to donate, as well as stay up to date with live campaign progress. Donations can also be made by texting “GIVE” to (608) 465-4310 or by mail to KANDU industries, 1741 Adel Street, Janesville, WI  53546.