We are ecstatic to announce that due to your generous support, we were able to provide two grants this year, each in the amount of $1,000, to celebrate Esther’s birthday and honor her life and memory. We are very proud to announce the first ever recipients of the Esther Lee Foundation grants: Carter Schott and Hailey Smith, students at U of I, where Esther attended college.
Carter Schott
Carter Schott is a master’s student at UIUC, a mechanical engineer, entrepreneur, and power wheelchair user. He is the founder of Innovative Independence, an assistive technology company focused on developing products that improve independence, safety, and quality of life for people with disabilities. Drawing from his lived experience, Carter works to create practical solutions that are designed specifically around the needs of wheelchair users. This grant will support the continued development and growth of Innovative Independence and its assistive technology products. It will help produce more units, reach additional wheelchair users, and continue developing products around lived experience from people with disabilities.
Hailey Smith
Hailey Smith has her bachelor’s degree in industrial design and will be starting a master’s degree in health technology, with an interest in medical design, this fall. This award will significantly impact her everyday life. She plans to use this grant to purchase new tubes and tires for her wheelchair. Remaining funds will pay for books and programs that will be needed for completion of her degree.
The Esther Lee Foundation is a 501(c)(3). 100% of donations are provided as grants to people with disabilities to promote independence and quality of life.
Our foundation only exists with your generous support!
Esther Lee Foundation 