Toyota Material Handling and its nationwide network of dealers showcased its commitment to improving their local communities during the company’s annual ‘Lift the Community Day’ earlier this month. 

Since 2021, Toyota said its associates have participated in an annual day-long philanthropic event near the company’s Columbus, Ind., headquarters; this year, the initiative expanded to include participation throughout the U.S., according to a July 17 news release. 

Toyota reported that 324 associates completed 2,300 volunteer hours during the event. In addition to the positive impact on the Columbus community, associates from 10 dealerships participated in the volunteer efforts, making it truly nationwide. 

“Participating in ‘Lift the Community Day’ is not only important to our associates, but it is important to upholding Toyota’s core values,” said Tracy Stachniak, Toyota Material Handling vice president of human resources. 

“Our business has the resources and compassion to be a philanthropic leader and make a significant impact not only in our local community but throughout North America,” she added. “We were eager to expand this event to dealers and look forward to driving further change throughout our communities.”

This year, Toyota said associates and dealers supported more than 30 local non-profit organizations and programs throughout five Indiana counties and 11 states, with an economic impact exceeding $84,685.

The release said corporate social responsibility is central to the company’s culture and named organizations, including the American Red Cross, United Way and Anchor House, an Indiana nonprofit providing housing initiatives, employment resources and nutritional assistance, that reflect Toyota’s core values.

“We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support and dedication of the volunteers from Toyota,” said Grace Kestler, executive director of The Arc of Bartholomew County [Indiana].

“Their commitment to our cause has been invaluable, and their contributions have made a significant impact on our efforts … helping us create a more inclusive and brighter future for our community," she added.

Throughout the year, Toyota sponsors and organizes volunteer activities on and off its campus. In 2023, Toyota associates donated 11,765 hours to support local organizations, contributing to a total economic impact of $745,721.

For more information, visit ToyotaForklift.com.