Tech Kids Unlimited Named Champion in Action by Citizens for Creating Employment Pathways for Diverse Abilities

Recognition provides $50,000 in unrestricted funding and volunteer support from Citizens

Tech Kids Unlimited is honored to be named a Champion in Action by Citizens! This recognition celebrates our ongoing commitment to empowering neurodiverse students through inclusive tech education and career readiness. The recognition comes with a $50,000 grant through their Champions in Action program, which will help support TKU’s Career Ladder Programs, which empower neurodiverse students through work-based learning and career readiness. 

With this award, TKU will also receive promotional and volunteer support to help advance future opportunities for neurodiverse students. “We are incredibly grateful for Citizens’ support and their commitment to our Career Ladder programs, which help neurodiverse students learn 21st-century technology skills along with social-emotional learning to ignite unlimited futures,” said Beth Rosenberg, Executive Director. “The Champions in Action award enables us to expand our reach to create  meaningful change for more neurodiverse individuals.”

“Workforce development is a key priority for Citizens, reflecting the concerns of our clients and the needs of the communities we serve,” said Rebecca O’Connell, NYC Metro President at Citizens. “This investment is about more than just funding programs; it’s about empowering individuals who are eager to learn, grow, and contribute to the economic health of our Communities.”

The partnership was proudly announced to the community on July 25th at the Clive Davis Gallery at NYU Tandon, one of TKU’s valued partners. TKU’s ongoing collaboration with The Ability Project at NYU Tandon makes this partnership possible. As part of the celebration, a team of Citizens volunteers led an engaging financial literacy workshop for 25 young adults who are interns in TKU’s summer internship program (CRISP). The event concluded with the presentation of a ceremonial check and a delicious lunch provided by Citizens Gallery, which is currently featuring Two Friends: An Exhibition of Student Work on display through August 8.

Tech Kids Unlimited empowers neurodiverse students through technology, creativity, and social-emotional learning, helping them build confidence and work-readiness skills in a supportive environment. Career Ladder programs offer real-world experience in digital design, video editing, and more. The high-touch instructional pedagogy model is tailored to each student’s needs. TKU also partners with schools, employers, and community organizations to promote inclusive hiring and expand access to career pathways. Champions in Action funding will support the Career Ladder’s five signature programs, including the College Access Program, an afterschool Digital Agency for real clients, tech boot camps, and paid summer internships to prepare students for entry-level roles in today’s tech-driven workforce.