"Project Mariposa" is an initiative of the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation (theGSF) with a simple mission: to make the world more accessible to those with severe disabilities through targeted technology product grants. Mariposa is butterfly in Spanish -- theGSF's signature symbol -- and like a butterfly emerging from it's cocoon, Project Mariposa will help those with disabilities to spread their wings.

Project Mariposa will initially focus on granting iPads to those impacted by Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) -- 50 iPads in 50 weeks. These incredible devices, coupled with the growing application library that accompanies them, are literally life-changing in assisting with communication, education, and independence. The iPad is opening up new avenues that were previously impossible. It's large screen size, light weight, portability, and featherlight touch screen make access to education, entertainment, and independence possible and in some cases it is allowing children to communicate for the first time in their lives. Its impact is truly incredible. In fact, the New York Times wrote an article and produced the below video about a 7-year-old boy with SMA and how the iPad has empowered him. Project Mariposa's goal is to provide that same life-changing positivity for a large number of people.

• WHAT >> theGSF is granting 50 iPads in 50 weeks. In addition to an iPad, each Project Mariposa grant recipient will receive a $50 gift card to the Apple iTunes store to begin building their app library and will receive a FREE download of theGSF's "Say Hi! AAC" communication app (launching in 2012).

• WHO >> Anyone with SMA. Adults, children, all types, siblings with SMA may both apply. For official rules, see Project Mariposa Terms and Conditions.

• WHEN >> Applications are now being accepted. The first grant recipient will be announced on Friday, February 3, 2012. One grant recipient will be announced each week via theGSF Facebook Fan Page.

• HOW >> To apply, click on the green APPLY button on the left or click HERE.

Want to see Project Mariposa grow beyond the initial 50 iPads? Become an official Project Mariposa Sponsor. Click HERE for details.

To make a targeted, tax-deductible donation in support of theGSF's Project Mariposa, click below: