Good Citizen Google-2009

Google has a rich list of corporate, volunteer, and philanthropic programs designed to make the world a better place. Some of the beneficial projects reside within or come out of Google search. For example, based on the number of searches for fl u and cold medicine, Google has helped identify parts of the world experiencing flu epidemics. Google maps strive to help people find their way around many cities on foot, by bicycle, or via the most environmentally friendly way possible.

Google has numerous programs specifically targeted to better education, particularly in science. These are a
few of the activities:

• The Summer of Code is a three - month, $ 2 million program for computer science students. Google offers student developers stipends to write code for various open - source projects. In 2008, the company partnered with 174 open - source, free software, and technology - related groups to identify and fund projects. Nearly 7,100 proposals were received, of which 1,125 were selected. While Google uses the event to look for promising recruits, the purpose is not recruiting. It is to develop a new array of open -source coding.

• In October 2006, together with LitCam and UNESCO ' s Institute for Lifelong Learning, Google launched the Literacy Project, offering resources for teachers, literacy groups, and anyone interested in promoting reading.

• Google gives the Anita Borg Scholarship to outstanding women studying computer science in the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe.

• Kids visit Google regularly for hands - on workshops and to learn about exciting careers in technology.

• Google is one of the sponsors for the annual Sally Ride Science Festival, in which hundreds of girls in grades 5 through 8 and their parents spend the day at Google. They attend workshops, participate in science activities, and learn more about careers in technology. They also get a terrific lunch.

• " Introduce a Girl to Engineering " week takes place annually as part of U.S. National Engineers Week. Employees at several Google offices bring their daughters to work for a day. Google also links up with schools and other organizations to allow other girls to take part in the day.

Janet Lowe is the author of the numerous business books, including the bestselling Warren Buffett Speaks: Wit and Wisdom from the World's Greatest Investor. Her articles have appeared in more than 100 publications, including Newsweek, Christian Science Monitor, Los Angeles Times, San Francisco Chronicle, and Dallas Morning News. She has been a frequent guest on CNBC, CNN, FOX Business Network, and PBS. She previously served as the financial editor of the San Diego Tribune. Other books written by Janet Lowe include Bill Gates Speaks: Insight from the World's Greatest Entrepreneur; Jack Welch Speaks: Wisdom from the World's Greatest Business Leader; Ted Turner Speaks: Insights from the World's Greatest Maverick; The Rediscovered Benjamin Graham: Selected Writings of the Wall Street Legend; and The Man Who Beats the S&P: Investing with Bill Miller.
By : Janet Lowe