Voya Financial, Inc. (NYSE: VOYA), announced today that the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) and Voya Cares® are collaborating to provide financial support to entrepreneurs with Down syndrome to raise awareness of the need for businesses of all sizes to embrace disability inclusive employment. The application period opens on July 29, 2020, for four grants to be used to start a business or invest more capital into an existing company.
The National Down Syndrome Society and Voya Cares® to provide $55,000 in grants for entrepreneurs with Down syndrome
Three $10,000 grants and one $25,000 grant will be awarded this October, in celebration of Down Syndrome Awareness Month and National Disability Employment Awareness Month. They will be part of a “Go Orange” awareness campaign by NDSS and Voya to boost the national conversation about the need for greater employment opportunities for people with Down syndrome and other disabilities.
HR Technology News: Avitecture Aids Company’s Reopening with Contactless Temperature Scanners
“In June 2020, the percentage of working age people with a disability who were employed was 28.4% as compared to 67.7% for those without a disability,” noted NDSS President and CEO Kandi Pickard. “Limited employment opportunities have led many people in the disability community to think outside the box and build their own businesses. Individuals with Down syndrome are revolutionizing the small business community by showcasing their passion and creativity. NDSS is grateful to work with Voya Cares to provide this unique opportunity for individuals to invest and grow.”
“Our nation recently celebrated the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act on July 26, 2020, and as with any underserved community, laws may grant equal opportunities, but that doesn’t mean equal opportunities exist,” said Jessica Tuman, vice president, Voya Cares® at Voya Financial. “Voya continues to push for societal change. We are honored to work with NDSS to help establish a secure financial future where all Americans can thrive.”
HR Technology News: Online School Made Simple: K12 Inc. Introduces New Tech Tools for Thousands of Students