IHG Hotels & Resorts and APSN have reinforced their ongoing strategic collaboration with a renewed three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), continuing their commitment to support APSN’s students and trainees across all IHG properties and its Singapore office.

This extended partnership, the second MOU between the organizations, will focus on philanthropy, advocacy, volunteering, and employment initiatives. IHG’s Singapore hotels will offer full-time employment, hands-on training, internships, and regular social events. APSN students and trainees will have the opportunity to engage in various roles, from front office positions such as concierge and bellman to operational duties like kitchen steward, housekeeping, and service staff.

This announcement coincides with IHG’s 34-kilometer Giving For Good relay, an annual fundraising event that has taken place for the last three years. The relay spans all 13 IHG hotels in Singapore and its Support Centre, raising funds for APSN. This event is part of IHG’s global Giving for Good initiative, held in September, encouraging colleagues to volunteer in support of their local communities. It aligns with IHG’s “Journey To Tomorrow” strategy, a 10-year plan aiming to create a sustainable future for travel while improving the lives of 30 million people by 2030.

Rajit Sukumaran, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, East Asia & Pacific, IHG Hotels & Resorts said: “I am proud at IHG to be a pioneer in building and supporting an inclusive culture and society, a mission that is closely aligned with Singapore’s Enabling Masterplan 2030 goals. Last year in Singapore, colleagues dedicated over 2,500 hours to community partnerships and impacting over 6,500 lives. Diversity, equity and inclusion is an integral part of IHG’s culture and we are committed to serving the communities in which we operate.”

“Over the last 30 years, IHG has supported the hiring of people with disabilities by providing full-time employment opportunities, on-the-job training and internships. Our strong partnership with organisations like APSN has strengthened our workplace culture and we have seen a shift in our colleagues’ perceptions and embracing diversity in the workplace.”

“I’m confident that our partnership with APSN will grow from strength to strength as we work together to make a positive impact in our community and an environment that is truly understanding of others.”

Founded in 1976, APSN is a social service organization committed to uplifting individuals with mild intellectual disabilities (IQ ranging from 50 to 70). Through its comprehensive approach, which emphasizes education, skill development, and ongoing support, APSN has assisted more than 6,000 individuals in reaching their full capabilities. With services provided across four schools and three specialized centers, the organization offers tailored programs designed to support people at every stage of life.

Royce Seah, Chairman, APSN Ltd. said: “IHG has been a wonderful partner and a great supporter of APSN over the years. Our strong collaborative partnership has made a significant impact on the lives of many of our beneficiaries, opening new doors of opportunity on various fronts for students and trainees with special needs. It is with partners like IHG where we can further our mission of empowering and guiding them into an inclusive society.”

It has been over 30 years since 1989 when Holiday Inn Orchard City Centre made history in Singapore by being one of the first hotels to employ individuals with disabilities. Currently, 5% of IHG’s full-time employees in Singapore are people with disabilities.

With a team of more than 1,600 staff across 13 properties in Singapore, fostering an inclusive and caring workplace remains a key priority for IHG. A recent company survey highlighted the benefits of volunteering, with all Singapore-based employees reporting a stronger connection to IHG’s mission. Additionally, 100% indicated they would recommend IHG as an exceptional place to work. This commitment to supporting both people and communities has earned IHG the prestigious title of Kincentric Best Employer for 2024.

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