Tech Citizenship

Arnstein

Genzyme Corp. takes a multi-prong strategy to philanthropy, relying on cash grants, employee volunteerism, and in-kind contributions to bolster the communities it calls home.

Community investment is a core component of the Cambridge-based biotech company.

“We don’t consider it charity or philanthropy,” said Caren Arnstein, a Genzyme spokeswoman. “Rather, it’s a part of the company’s structure. We focus on developing sustainable relationships in the areas of health and science education in our communities.”

This is evident in the way that Genzyme supports the University of Massachusetts and the Museum of Science, Boston with employee volunteers and funding. Education is important in part because there is a great need for knowledgeable citizens and to build a workforce to support the growth of Genzyme and the biotech industry in the region, she said.

To that end, the company also gives to local community organizations where it has facilities. For instance, in August, Genzyme awarded almost $11,000 to the Framingham Head Start program.

It has a global reach, as well. Two years ago, Genzyme began collaborating with several organizations to develop drugs for neglected diseases such as malaria and African sleeping sickness. The program is called Humanitarian Assistance for Neglected Diseases (HAND).

“Our employees work with our partners to share techniques and to identify solutions to these serious public health problems that kill millions of children in developing countries,” said Arnstein. “We always have more than enough volunteers.”

Citizenship Facts

Genzyme Corp.

Total cash contributions in New England in 2007: $1,600,000

Number of volunteer hours in New England in 2007: 2,873

In-kind contributions of equipment and services in New England in 2007: Not available

Principal recipients of charitable activities in 2007: The University of Massachusetts; Museum of Science Boston; SMOC Head Start, Framingham; Woman’s Lunch Place, Boston; Cystic Fibrosis Foundation; March of Dimes.

Interesting philanthropic activities: Genzyme’s G.I.V.E (Genzyme Invests in Volunteer Efforts) program was created eight years ago to encourage employee-directed volunteer efforts. During this time, Genzyme has supported more than 200 organizations through the program, like the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and March of Dimes for which teams of Genzyme employees volunteer.

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