Here at LifeSize, we have been given an incredible opportunity to be part of a great product that continues to shape the future of how we communicate in the world today. Our success comes through the hard work of individuals both here at LifeSize and out in the community. We all know just how fortunate we are, and LifeSize believes that it is important to always assess how best to give back to our communities. While our activities are company sponsored, they could not occur without the enthusiasm and support of our employees.
We hope as our success grows, we can expand our corporate stewardship activities world wide. Giving back to our community also makes for happier employees and a thriving company. We invite you to learn about our favorite charities:
In 2009 LifeSize partnered with Freedom Calls to help a father deployed in Iraq be near his wife via LifeSize videoconference she gave birth. See a video if it on NBC Nightly News
LifeSize, partnering with the American Red Cross and One World Theatre, provided HD video conferencing systems to Camp One World in 2009 and 2010. The camp is for children of deployed military personnel. At the end of the camp, the kids perform a play for their deployed parents via LifeSize video conferencing. Watch this short video recap from 2010, or read this Austin American Statesman article.
Since its inception, LifeSize has participated in the invitation-only Austin Bowling Tournament for high-tech companies. We are honored to be part of this event which raises funds to support the Center for Child Protection. Founded in 1989, the Center for Child Protection is the first stop for children who are suspected victims of abuse and for children who have witnessed a violent crime. The Center's stated mission is 'To reduce the trauma for children during the investigation and prosecution of child abuse cases.'
LifeSize sponsored two teams this year, with team one breaking the top ten and taking 5th place. For two years running, LifeSize has won the 'Best Fan Club' award for our enthusiastic participants and supporters.
This group provides bicycles and helmets to children of US military members. LifeSize was proud to contribute to their Independence Day, 2008 event.
LifeSize sponsored a golf team to participate in the 2008 annual tournament which raises funds for the Knights of Columbus scholarships.
During the week of the U.S. Thanksgiving throughout 26 Texas cities, corporations and groups pull together to provide a filling meal for those in need. LIfeSize employees in Austin gladly volunteered their time every year since 2004 to help serve meals to over 10,000 people, making this event a long-standing tradition.
Over 13,000 participants came out Thanksgiving morning to run in this annual 5K event. LifeSize made its first official showing this year by sponsoring its own team in 2008. The event supports Caritas of Austin, a group that works diligently to combat poverty, hunger and homelessness in the local community.
LifeSize was happy to contribute to the VFW's fundraiser in 2008 which supports U.S. military soldiers as they are rehabilitating from injuries sustained in action overseas.
While LifeSize has not sponsored a team yet on this 4,500 mile bike ride, we are very happy to contribute to their event and their efforts to fight cancer. Starting in Austin, Texas, this bike ride runs up through the continental U.S. ending in Anchorage, Alaska and provides hope, knowledge and support to communities along the way.
This is another event that is becoming a LifeSize tradition. Since 2006 we have sponsored a rest stop during the bike race which runs from San Antonio to Austin over two days. Starting in 2008, LifeSize sponsored a cycling team in addition to the rest stop volunteers. Composed of seasoned and casual riders, all on the team had fun while riding towards a cure for diabetes. See pictures of our 2009 team and other cyclists on our facebook page.
For the second year in a row, LifeSize participated in the Urban Stampede in Bangalore. This fun event is a corporate relay run where a portion of the proceeds from the event go to the Dream a Dream foundation. This year LifeSize sponsored four teams, one of which won 30th out of 136 with a 20k time of 1:53:00!
Every year, more than 17,000 people participate in the LiveStrong Challenge to benefit the Lance Armstrong Foundation. Since 2007 we have been proud to have a team participating in the 5k run and bike ride. In 2008 our team raised over $5,000 for LAF.
For the 2008 holiday season, in lieu of sending out gifts to our associates and vendors in the United States, LifeSize felt it would be much more meaningful to all to make donations to the following groups:
For over 35 years, the Ronald McDonald House Charities has worked to create, find and support programs that improve the health and well being of children all over the world.
Family Eldercare provides essential services for elders, adults with disabilities and those who care for them.
Provides counseling and educational services to individuals and groups free of charge with special support to our U.S. military members and their families.
The LifeSize No "Mo" Cancer Team shows off their Movember moustaches on a LifeSize Bridge call, recorded over LifeSize Video Center. Movember is an annual month-long event to raise awareness and money for cancers that affect men. Please donate to our team and this great cause!