Federico Peña Endorses OpenWorld Learning

"I hope you will join a growing group of business leaders who are investing in OpenWorld Learning as an effective way to guarantee the educational success of Hispanic children, starting in elementary school, where it matters most."

- Federico Peña

Managing Director, Vestar Capital Partners
National Advisory Board, OpenWorld Learning
Former Secretary of Energy, Secretary of Transportation, Mayor of Denver

OpenWorld Learning Doubles School Sites

Over the past six months, OpenWorld Learning has expanded from 4 to 8 sites in Denver-area public schools. Fundraising more than doubled in the past year, increasing from $269,000 in 2004 to $680,000 in 2005.

Tax Credit Supports OpenWorld Learning Growth

Donations to OpenWorld Learning qualify for a 50% state tax credit that supports Colorado after-school programs. The Childcare Contribution Tax Credit can be combined with federal and state deductions, reducing the after-tax cost of donating to OpenWorld Learning by 70%. The tax credit applies to both individual and corporate donors.

OpenWorld Learning is now seeking sponsors for new sites to be opened this fall and next spring. We are seeking sponsors at the $10,000, $30,000 and $100,000 level. OpenWorld Learning also gratefully accepts smaller gifts for general operating support.

To donate to OpenWorld Learning, or to introduce us to potential sponsors, please contact Chris Myers at 303-744-8495 or cmyers@openworldlearning.org

OpenWorld Learning Partners with MIT
and DU

OpenWorld Learning plans for the year include strengthening partnerships with two leading universities. Seymour Papert is one of three scientists from the MIT Media Lab who serve on OpenWorld Learning's National Advisory Board. Seymour Papert invented Logo — the computer programming language used by children in the OpenWorld Learning Program.

OpenWorld Learning is also developing a partnership with the University of Denver, with strong support from Chancellor Robert Coombe. Partnership discussions are under way with the Daniels College of Business, Digital Media Studies Program and Department of Engineering and Computer Science.

Meet Jesus Velasquez

Jesus Velasquez was just 11 in 1999 when he enrolled in the OpenWorld Learning Program. Because it was fun and interesting, he says, he quickly learned computer programming and began creating multimedia projects.

Jesus' natural teaching and leadership skills — combined with hard work and a passion for helping others — soon translated into a new role. As Jesus continued to grow in the OpenWorld Learning Program, he became a volunteer Student Leader, then a paid OpenWorld Learning teacher.

Jesus sees OpenWorld Learning as a stepping stone for his future. "OpenWorld Learning opened a new door for me, a door that has led to dozens more," he says. "I couldn't ask to be in a better place."

To become a teacher or volunteer in the OpenWorld Learning Program, please contact Elizabeth Dale at 303-832-0066 or edale@openworldlearning.org