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Toyota Material Handling Recognized with Spirit of Philanthropy Award by Indiana University

Attendees attend the Spirit of Philanthropy reception on Saturday, April, 9, 2024.

Pictured: Toyota Material Handling receives Spirit of Philanthropy Award from Indiana University in recognition of the company’s dedication to contributing to the wellbeing of the community.

Pictured Left to Right: Pamela Whitten (IU President), Rafael Bahamonde (IU Indianapolis, School of Health and Human Sciences Dean), Brian Egloff (TMH, Director of Engineering), Dennis Huffer (TMH, Design Engineer Supervisor), Christopher Huber (TMH, Design Engineer), Danielle Nickerson (TMH, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager), Latha Ramchand (IU Indianapolis Chancellor)

 

Columbus, Ind. (June 3, 2024) – Toyota Material Handling was recently honored by Indiana University – Indianapolis with its prestigious Spirit of Philanthropy Award, recognizing the company’s financial contributions and volunteer efforts that enrich the campus and community.

 

Based in Columbus, Indiana, Toyota has cultivated a long-standing partnership with Indiana University’s School of Health & Human Sciences’Go Baby Go’ program. ‘Go Baby Go’ offers custom mobility solutions, including modified ride-on cars, to support the independence and cognitive development of children with disabilities.

 

These ride-on cars are customized versions of standard children’s ride-on cars, altered to the needs of specific children with mobility challenges. These modifications can include features like adaptive seating, specialized controls and safety enhancements to make the cars more accessible and enjoyable for children with disabilities. The university’s students and community volunteers work together to leverage donated vehicles and monetary donations to supply design teams with tools needed for custom builds.

 

“Toyota Material Handling is proud of the impactful progress made through the ‘Go Baby Go’ program to provide children with improved mobility and independence,” said Bill Finerty, President and CEO of Toyota Material Handling. “Corporate philanthropic involvement is one of Toyota’s core values, and we are proud to partner with the Indiana University School of Health and Human Sciences to further enrich our community.”

 

Toyota’s design engineers collaborate with engineering students each semester to strategize, design and customize cars for children. This collaboration amplifies the program’s impact while nurturing the next generation of professionals and fostering a more inclusive society. This partnership not only promotes inclusivity but propels innovation forward, aligning with Toyota’s culture of Kaizen – or continuous improvement. Last year, the company’s contribution of $10,000 to the initiative was pivotal, enabling the procurement of essential materials and equipment required to tailor electric ride-on cars and enhance children's mobility and autonomy.

 

Toyota associates volunteered their time, skills and expertise to help adapt and customize these ride-on cars, ensuring high-quality production and fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and community engagement.

 

“Toyota Material Handling’s unwavering support and partnership with the ‘Go Baby Go’ program exemplify the profound impact that corporate philanthropy can have on community health and development,” said Rafael Bahamonde, Founding Dean of the School of Health and Human Sciences at IU Indianapolis. “Their contributions not only enhance the mobility and independence of children with disabilities but also inspire our students to apply their skills in meaningful, real-world projects that foster inclusivity and innovation.”

 

The ongoing partnership between Toyota Material Handling and 'Go Baby Go' showcases the transformative influence of corporate philanthropy and volunteerism on community well-being, reaffirming Toyota's adherence to its mission to ‘help others carry the load’.


Learn more about Toyota Material Handling, its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and other efforts to create a positive impact in the community by reading the company’s CSR Report here or by visiting ToyotaForklift.com

 

About Toyota Material Handling


Toyota Material Handling offers material handling products and solutions, including forklifts, reach trucks, order pickers, pallet jacks, container handlers, automated guided vehicles, and tow tractors, along with aerial work platforms, fleet management services, and advanced automation engineering and design. Toyota’s commitment to quality, reliability and customer satisfaction, the hallmark of the Toyota Production System, extends throughout more than 230 locations across North America. With access to an industry-leading lineup of material handling products, Toyota dealers are uniquely positioned to help solve wide-ranging challenges in warehousing and distribution. Built for every application, Toyota can provide the most complete set of solutions for material handling, automation, energy, advanced logistics, and warehouse optimization. For more information or to learn more, visit ToyotaForklift.com.

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