Dear delegates and member of the NMC community,

Jeffrey Avina (form Microsoft) and Jennifer Corriero (from TIG) have reached us with two messages/opportunities that we are pleased to share with you.

Jeffrey provides us useful insight of the Microsoft Citizenship and Software donation programs as well as information about MS projects on the ground that might impact your local communities . If you decide to apply  for software please let us know so we can try to follow up if possible.

Jennifer inform us about the new e-course designed for aspiring social innovators and environmental entrepreneurs promoted by TakinITGlobal which deadline for application is the next March 12th.

Here below you will find their full text copied for your use.

Best,

The NMC Secretariat

From Microsoft

Dear NMC delegates,

Returning from NMC, I am filled with optimism having seen the  determination of this group of young leaders to creatively overcome the challenges we face as a world community.

The Microsoft team thank you  for the many discussions we shared at the conference. It was an enlightening opportunity to listen to the opinions of the youth of today, and hear your concerns and hopes for the future.  Particular thanks to those involved in the Poverty and Unemployment workshops. Your inputs have given me much food for thought, and will contribute to the evolving form  of our community employability programs in a number of ways.

Many of you asked us questions about Microsoft’s Citizenship program, in which case our 2009 Citizenship report might be interesting for you.

I also include a link to our ‘Local Impact Map’, where you can find out about the  projects Microsoft is working on in your local area.

One way that Microsoft may be able to support you more directly in the short term is  through our NGO Software donation program. I have attached some information about how your organization can apply attached with this e-mail.

Thank you again for sharing your enthusiasm, ideas and energy with us.

Best of luck in your endeavors,

Jeffrey Avina

From TakingITGlobal

Dear NMC delegates,

Are you interested in changing the world? Do you have an idea for a project in your community?

Sprout is an e-course designed for aspiring social innovators and environmental entrepreneurs who want to grow their project ideas and learn to create lasting changes in their communities.

Sprout provides innovative young people (ages 16-30) all over the world with a unique way to learn, grow and connect with like-minded leaders in a supportive online environment that encourages your hard work to create a better world. The Sprout journey offers a chance to learn more about community-focused project management, apply your knowledge and skills, interact with an international learning community of youth and an opportunity to turn your idea into reality. Sprout also pairs participants with experienced e-mentors of all ages who provide inter-generational support, encouragement and insight through the Sprout journey. What are you waiting for? Sprout your project and change the world.

Applications for participants and e-mentors are due March 12th, 2010. Feel free to contact our team by email at sprout@takingitglobal.org. For more information please visit www.sproutecourse.org.

Sprout e-course is a program of TakingITGlobal, the social network that connects you to the global issues that affect us all. Visit us at www.tigweb.org.

Jennifer Corriero