Fort Wayne, Ind. — The English, Bonter, Mitchell Foundation recently awarded a grant of $75,000 to Easterseals Northeast Indiana to support artificial intelligence initiatives that will increase efficiency and effectiveness for the disability services provider. The foundation also awarded an additional $100,00 for general operating support in 2026.
Easterseals Northeast Indiana will implement innovative AI applications to strengthen operations, reduce duplication of work, and enable staff to devote more time to mission-driven priorities that empower people with disabilities to thrive in all areas of their lives.
“We are very grateful to the English, Bonter, Mitchell Foundation for supporting our efforts to operate more efficiently through appropriate use of artificial intelligence,” said Donna K. Elbrecht, CEO of Easterseals Northeast Indiana. “Using AI to make administrative tasks more efficient will allow our program teams to focus their time and energy on helping individuals and families.”
The grant will help fund development of AI systems that will reduce administrative burdens while improving customer service. It also will support operations to promote long-term sustainability for Easterseals Northeast Indiana. Some expected results of the agency’s AI initiatives include:
- Real-time budget monitoring and improved detection of irregularities
- Improved human resources response times using automated responses for common questions
- Improved communication across information technology platforms and improved helpdesk responses to routine technology issues
- AI-assisted internal auditing to prevent billing errors and ensure stable cash flow
- Stronger cross-departmental communication and use of data for better decision-making
The additional grant for general operating support, which is not restricted to a specific program, service or project, helps pay for resources that are essential for Easterseals Northeast Indiana to provide personalized support, practical resources, and innovative opportunities to learn and grow.
“The English, Bonter, Mitchell Foundation has been incredibly generous to Easterseals Northeast Indiana over the years,” Elbrecht said. “Funds for general operating support are particularly meaningful as they help ensure our long-term ability to support the people who need us in our community.”
Easterseals Northeast Indiana provides services to more than 1,300 individuals with disabilities in Fort Wayne, Columbia City, Angola and surrounding areas. The agency employs about 500 staff working together to provide top quality, person-centered services to help individuals with disabilities thrive at home, at school, at work and in the community.