For funders
Information for funders and partners
The things a funder usually asks for first, in one place: who we are, how to check us yourself, which documents we can send, and what your support goes toward.
At a glance
- Legal name
- Open Eyes, INC.
- Form
- Illinois not-for-profit corporation
- Founded
- 2013
- Federal tax status
- 501(c)(3) public charity; exempt since July 2013
- EIN
- Shown on the donate page
- Founder and CEO
- Chanell A. Briggs
Our mission
Open Eyes is an organization that helps people who are blind or visually impaired, older adults and young people use technology and media with confidence, safety and independence.
Check us yourself
The IRS keeps a public record of recognized charities. Search for Open Eyes, INC. in the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search to confirm our status. Contributions to a 501(c)(3) public charity are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Documents
Some documents are on this website now. Others we send when you ask.
Leadership and board
Our Founder and CEO and the board members we list publicly.
Programs and what sessions cover
The six ways we help, who each is for and what a session can look like.
IRS determination letter
The IRS letter recognizing Open Eyes as exempt under Section 501(c)(3).
IRS Form W-9
Our taxpayer identification form, for grant agreements and payments.
Other documents
Anything else a funder needs, such as annual returns or financial statements. Ask, and we will tell you what we can send.
To request a document, use the contact form and name it. Please say that you are a funder so the right person replies.
What support goes toward
Gifts and grants support the charitable and educational work of Open Eyes: hands-on technology, media and digital education for people who are blind or visually impaired, older adults, young people and families, with digital safety in every program.
- Accessible technology. Hands-on training for people who are blind or visually impaired: smartphones, screen readers, voice tools and staying safe online.
- Technology for older adults. Patient, step-by-step help with smartphones, video calls, messaging and staying safe from scams.
- Youth technology, media and STEM. Digital literacy, podcasting, video and STEM projects that help young people create, not just consume.
- Career readiness. A look behind the screen: careers in media and technology, explored through hands-on team projects.
- Sensory-friendly programs. Flexible, calm media and technology sessions designed for children with autism and sensory sensitivities.
- Community access. Workshops, family tech nights and pop-up labs that bring technology education to the whole community.
Ways to work with us
- Grants and sponsorships. Tell us what you have in mind and what you would need from us through the contact form.
- Program partnerships. Schools, agencies, employers and community groups can start a conversation on the partner page.
- Volunteer or in-kind support. Time, skills and equipment all help. Use the volunteer page to tell us what you can offer.
- Individual gifts. Online giving is opening soon. See the donate page for the latest.
This page will grow as more documents are added. If something you need is not listed, ask. We would rather answer a question than lose a good partnership over a missing file.