The Cisco Partnershi
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"Community Voice Mail is a great example of what we look for in a partnership.
They focus on the basic needs of under served people and are incorporating Internet technology to create scaleable, more efficient solutions. It's very satisfying to know we are helping to offer thousands of people each year a tangible tool to reclaim their lives." - Michael Yutrzenka,
Executive Director Cisco Systems Foundation
Cisco Systems has been a major supporter of CVM contributing millions of dollars of Cisco product along with millions of dollars in grants and hundreds of hours of employee time to our mission. We are extremely grateful for the support of Cisco Systems Foundation, Product Donations and numerous employees who have contributed to our cause.
The unique partnership between Cisco Systems and Community Voice Mail was recognized by the Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy (CECP) with the 2007 Directors Nonprofit Excellence Award. This award recognized CVM for its exceptional long-standing partnership with Cisco Systems and the Cisco Foundation. The partnership is an excellent example of how a nonprofit organization and global corporation can come together and have a significant impact on major social issues of homelessness and the technology/telecommunications gap that exists for the poor.
With Gratitude
Kevin Chestnut: 1955 - 2006
Kevin L. Chestnut was a man of intense talent, brilliance, and compassion. As the General Manager of Cisco's Seattle-based Enterprise Communications Business Unit, Kevin championed Community Voice Mail, inspiring his peers, staff, and members of the Community Voice Mail network to envision a partnership that would truly make a difference in the lives of thousands of people. His leadership in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina exemplified his commitment and humility, saying at one point: "Never underestimate the power of a huge company when it's channeled toward the common good."