Tech Citizenship

MacLean

The mission of Microsoft Corp. is to “enable people to realize their full potential,” according to Ted MacLean, general manager of Microsoft’s Northeast operations. And in keeping with that philosophy, the Redmond, Wash.-based software giant is focusing its charitable efforts on health care, education and business concerns.

Like a number of this year’s honorees, Microsoft has contributed money, time and products to Year Up, a one-year, intensive training program that provides urban young adults with a unique combination of technical and professional skills, college credits, an educational stipend, and a corporate apprenticeship.

“We try to create a support system and structure to help these people in Year Up,” said MacLean. “Microsoft provides staff mentors and tutors, and supports Year Up with donations and employee time.”

In combination with the Red Sox Foundation and City Year, Microsoft has also helped raise funds for the largest and oldest nonprofit in Roxbury — the Dimock Community Health Center. With “Doubles for Dimock,” every time the Red Sox hit a double at Fenway, Microsoft donates $750 to Dimock.

For the Center for Women & Enterprise, Microsoft is working with the organization to help women launch their own businesses.

“Over the last couple of years, we have been really focusing our philanthropic efforts to issues around work-force development and training,” said MacLean. “In 2003, 35 percent went there; this year, 80 percent; and by 2010 we expect 100 percent of our efforts to be focused on work-force issues.”

Citizenship Facts

Microsoft Corp.

Total cash contributions in New England in 2006: $609,800

Number of volunteer hours in New England in 2006: 3,877

In-kind contributions of equipment and services in New England: $9,100,100

Principal recipients of charitable activities in 2006: Bunker Hill Community College; Goodwill Memorial Industries; Center for Women and Enterprise; Year Up

Interesting philanthropic activities: An Internet Safety Campaign began last year with all Microsoft employees providing Internet safety presentations to their local schools or nonprofit organizations. Microsoft also launched an online safety campaign with Boston Public Schools. Microsoft is committed to work-force development where many of the company’s employees volunteer their time and skills.

• 
  Host Sponsor
• 
  Partner Sponsor
• 
  Patron Sponsor
• 
  Patron Sponsor

Become a Sponsor »