Learning Differences
The Orfalea Foundations define Learning Differences as "Learning Opportunities" that focus on abilities, not obstacles. We support organizations and programs that recognize and assist all students with their diverse learning styles and competencies.
For 2007-2008, the Orfalea Foundations' Learning Differences priorities are:
- To support the early identification of learning styles.
- To promote the link between Dyslexia and creativity and entrepreneurial talent.
- To eliminate the stigma associated with a Learning Difference diagnosis.
Below, please read about several programs the Orfalea Foundations have supported that fall within our defined commitments to Learning Differences.
Dyslexia Awareness & Resource Center (DARC)
Established in Santa Barbara in 1991, the Dyslexia Awareness and Resource Center provides information and guidance about dyslexia, attention disorders, and other learning differences. The center organizes workshops, education programs, and conferences to educate and raise awareness about these differences.
DARC strives to assist children and young adults who lack functional literacy due to undiagnosed learning differences and help them overcome obstacles to their personal development and reach their maximum productivity in society.
All Kinds of Minds
All Kinds of Minds is a non-profit institute dedicated to helping students who struggle with learning to succeed in school and in life by providing tools, programs, and common language for parents, educators, and clinicians.
The founder of All Kinds of Minds, Dr. Mel Levine, says "Teachers must realize that the very qualities that trip up a child may be the source of his success as an adult."
The Orfalea Foundations support the "Schools Attuned" program which helps teachers maximize children's success by training them to recognize the different ways children learn. In addition, the Orfalea Foundations have supported programs including, "Understanding All Kinds of Minds," the "All Kinds of Minds Fair," "Learning About Learning Workshops," and the "Parent Toolkit."
Show Your Spark Program
The Orfalea Foundations and Schwab Learning jointly support the "Show Your Spark!" national school assembly program to build student awareness and understanding of how our brains work and the different ways we learn. The presentations are designed to facilitate communication between students, teachers, and parents about learning difficulties, including learning differences (LD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).