On November 29, in celebration of the 33rd International Day of Persons with Disabilities, JD Foundation, in collaboration with the Beijing Disabled Persons’ Federation and the Beijing Disabled Persons’ Welfare Foundation, hosted a series of charitable events at JD.com’s headquarters. JD Foundation and the Beijing Disabled Persons’ Welfare Foundation have established a strategic partnership focused on improving the quality of life for people with disabilities, promoting their integration into society, exploring new philanthropic models, and creating awareness for public welfare institutions. These efforts are collectively aimed at achieving high-quality development in disability support services.
JD.com has a longstanding commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities since its inception. As early as 2005, when JD.com entered the e-commerce sector, the company has employed individuals with disabilities. Over the years, the company has expanded its efforts through skills training and empowerment initiatives, facilitating employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for individuals with disabilities. In October of 2013, JD Customer Service launched the “Sunshine Angels” project, through which hundreds of individuals with disabilities have been employed, with plans to offer part-time positions to 1,000 more. JD.com currently employs over 4,000 individuals with disabilities, a number that continues to grow.
The November 29 event featured a charity bazaar with handicrafts created by people with disabilities. The well-attended bazaar showcased a variety of unique items, including crocheted wool flowers, ornaments, enamelware, bracelets, Beijing silk figurines, children’s paintings, paper cuttings, and postcards. Proceeds from the sales will go toward disability-related charitable causes. JD employees who made purchases each received a certificate and a commemorative badge recognizing their support and participation in disability advocacy.
One of the event’s highlights was a guide dog demonstration, where three guide dog users and their canine companions captured the attention of attendees. The guide dogs demonstrated their ability to assist their owners in navigating streets, avoiding obstacles, and ensuring safe travel. Guide dogs not only help visually impaired individuals to navigate and find destinations but also serve as protectors during emergencies. Beyond their practical assistance, these dogs are invaluable companions, providing emotional support to their owners.
The event also featured an inspiring performance by artists with disabilities from Beijing, Hebei, Tianjin, and other regions, in which they presented a rich tapestry of songs, dances, instrumental music, and storytelling. The performance provided a vibrant, heartwarming cultural showcase to attendees.
(vivian.yang@jd.com)