Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Community Engagement and Investment

As a global leader in technology, Microsoft has an opportunity and a responsibility to apply its expertise in software to helping people, particularly people in underserved communities. Microsoft has a long history of community engagement, and this has led to many community partnerships around the world. These partnerships are founded on a mutual commitment to creating sustainable technology solutions that make a lasting difference in people’s lives.

Through monetary grants, software and curriculum donations, technology solutions, and employee volunteer hours, Microsoft supports programs and organizations that address the needs of communities worldwide.


Programs
Microsoft Unlimited Potential–Community Technology Skills Program

By partnering with governments, nonprofits, and nongovernmental organizations, the Microsoft Unlimited Potential–Community Technology Skills Program promotes workforce development and IT skills training programs that enable young people and adults to realize their potential. Through cash grants, software donations, technology solutions, and specialized curriculum, the program supports community technology centers around the world.

Nongovernmental Organization Capacity Building

Through partnerships with nongovernmental organizations like TechSoup and NPower, Microsoft is helping nonprofit organizations address their technology needs and increase their capacity to serve clients. In addition, the Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher program assists nongovernmental organizations in making more software and hardware available to eligible nonprofits, community centers, and academic institutions.

Puget Sound Grants and Programs

The Puget Sound region of Washington State has a thriving arts and cultural scene, a network of human services providers, and a world-class education system. These resources support the vitality and attractiveness of the Puget Sound region. Microsoft provides direct grants and matching support to a broad range of nonprofit organizations that address community needs in the region.

Employee Engagement

Through the Microsoft employee community engagement programs, Microsoft works to mobilize the skills, knowledge, and volunteer time of its employees to help achieve a shared vision of creating social and economic opportunities in communities worldwide.

Disaster Response and Humanitarian Relief
Microsoft employees are often on the front lines in times of crisis, giving help wherever it's needed and devising ways to use technology to aid relief efforts.