Columbus-based 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.
The company has cultivated a long-standing partnership with the IU School of Health & Human Sciences’ Go Baby Go program, which 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. 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.
