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In recognition of Microsoft's continuous support of the Presbyterian Hemby Children's Hospital, Presbyterian is naming its newly built playground the Microsoft Park. Funding for the playground was secured solely through proceeds from the Hemby Cup, an annual Microsoft-sponsored charity hockey game, which has raised more than $300,000 over the past five years.

The park will be officially named on Sept. 15 at 9:15 a.m., after which more than 100 Microsoft employees will volunteer at the hospital as part of Microsoft's annual Day of Caring, an opportunity for Microsoft employees to volunteer throughout the community.

"We are so pleased to open the playground to our patients and provide a safe and fun environment during their stay," said Pat Campbell, executive director of Presbyterian Hemby Children's Hospital. "Part of the healing process is offering stimulating and enjoyable interaction with other children. Through Microsoft's continuous support of the hospital, children now have a place to play and, if only for a moment, forget that they are sick. We are extremely grateful to Microsoft, not only for its financial support, but also for its dedication to our hospital through today's Day of Caring."

Microsoft Park is located on the second floor of the hospital, housed in a courtyard-like setting that provides shelter from the sun and rain, yet allows for fresh air. It includes specialized features such as rubberized surfaces and several large play structures that accommodate wheelchairs and IV poles. The playground provides therapeutic play which stimulates the imagination, allows for necessary exercise in fresh air and gives children the chance just be children by taking a break from their hospital therapies.

Presbyterian also hosts several parties at the playground throughout the year, which former patients and their families typically return to enjoy the festivities. Microsoft Park is modeled after exotic locations from around the world to allow its young patients the opportunity to "travel" to famous attractions. This same theme, "Kids from Around the World" is currently being implemented in patient rooms, waiting areas and lobbies throughout the hospital.

"Many of our patients hold a special place in their hearts for our playground," said Presbyterian Hemby Children's Hospital Child Life Specialist Kimberly Lucier. "It is a place where our youngsters can retreat away from their illnesses and just be kids. That's why our former patients continue to visit the playground long after they have overcome their medical battles."

"The around the clock care Presbyterian Hemby Children's Hospital gives to kids in our community is amazing," said Microsoft Charlotte Site Director Stephen Sorenson. "Over the past several years, we have developed a strong relationship with the hospital and are proud to become part of what they do each day. We are honored to receive this recognition and look forward to our continued partnership with the facility."

Microsoft has been supporting the hospital since 2001 with the creation of the Hemby Cup, a fundraising hockey game benefiting the Presbyterian Hemby Children' Hospital. Founded by Microsoft's Charlotte office, the Hemby Cup has provided medical equipment, toys, games and books. This year's Hemby Cup will take place on December 2, at the Charlotte Bobcats Arena, located at 333 East Trade Street in Charlotte.

Microsoft's Charlotte Region employees based in North Carolina and South Carolina, have participated in additional corporate philanthropy programs throughout the community through the Microsoft Giving Campaign. This program allows employees to commit to donating time and resources to any nonprofit in the community they would like to support. Through this corporate initiative, Microsoft Charlotte employees have donated close to 2,250 hours of their time to local nonprofits, while also providing more than $34,000 through the employee matching program, Microsoft's commitment to match any employee donation, up to $12,000 per year.