NEWS RELEASES

Reno, Nev. (August 30, 2007) -- Reno-based Microsoft Licensing, GP, managing product licensing transactions for Microsoft worldwide, is deploying more than 200 of its employees into the community to volunteer at 15 different organizations during its third annual Community Action Week, September 10-13, 2007. 

In 2006, Microsoft Licensing employees clocked nearly 1,500 hours of community service, all during regular business hours, to complete 27 projects for 15 local organizations.  Company officials anticipate expanding this year’s Community Action Week with 20 percent more employees assisting on 38 separate projects throughout Greater Reno-Tahoe.

The program is part of a growing commitment by companies nationwide, like Microsoft Licensing, to give back to the communities in which it does business.  According to a 2006 report, “Giving in Numbers,” by the Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy, corporate giving in America is up with more companies supporting monetary donations and employee volunteer programs than ever before.

“Giving back to the community in which we live and work is at the core of Microsoft’s philosophy and something our employees are committed to and look forward to throughout the year,” said Mary Ellen Smith, general manager Americas operations for Microsoft Licensing.  “We partner with local organizations where we can have the most positive impact including health and wellness organizations; technology, education and children groups; and diversity programs.”

Among the organizations that Microsoft Licensing supported during Community Action Week last year, and again this year, is Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada.  This year Microsoft employees will spend the day with children who have not been matched with a Big Brother or Sister.  Together, Microsoft volunteers and the children will lay sod for the new soccer field at Veteran’s Memorial Elementary serving more than 450 students. 

“Microsoft employees have eagerly embraced getting involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters to help change the lives of underprivileged children in our community,” said Pat Fling, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters. “Who benefits are the children in our community, our schools and our community as a whole.”

Community Action Week will support 15 local organizations including:  Angel Kiss, Animal Ark, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada, Boys & Girls Club of Truckee Meadows, Disability Resource, Education Collaboration, For Kids Foundation, Friends of Nevada Wilderness, Kids Club, Make A Wish, Nevada Humane Society, Planned Parenthood-Mar Monte, Reno Wheelman, Solace Tree and Veterans Guest House. 

About Microsoft Licensing, GP:  Microsoft Licensing, GP, has been headquartered in Reno since 1997 and manages product licensing agreements for Microsoft worldwide.  With offices in Reno, Fort Lauderdale, Fargo and Puerto Rico, Microsoft Licensing employees more than 500 employees supporting Microsoft’s products, programs and technologies.  Microsoft Licensing processes and manages more than 70,000 volume licensing agreements annually for Microsoft.  For more information about Community Action Week, contact Chris Holder at 775.823.5829 or visit www.microsoft.com.