Science
Helping educate people about science and technology is a natural extension of the work we do at Roche Palo Alto. Some of the initiatives we’re involved with include:

• Biotechnology and Bioinformation for Teachers, California State University at Monterey Bay
  As part of this National Science Foundation-funded program, teachers develop lesson plans for high school students from demographic groups underrepresented in scientific careers. The students take a field trip to Roche Palo Alto, learning about jobs in math, science and biotechnology.
  
• Palo Alto Partners in Education
  Roche Palo Alto contributes funds to this foundation, which is dedicated to supporting Palo Alto public schools by partnering with the community to raise funds for enhancing educational excellence.
  
• Resource Area for Teachers (RAFT)
  Our site regularly provides supplies, equipment and support to this non-profit organization that assists K-12 teachers and community groups by providing materials and ideas for day-to-day teaching and professional growth. RAFT enables students to explore subjects such as math, science and art through first-hand experience, bringing educational value to thousands of donated items.
  
• Speakers Program
  Roche Palo Alto is pleased to provide a selection of seminar topics to academic institutions in the U.S. The purpose of our program is to share our knowledge and expertise with both undergraduate and graduate students, and to engage in productive dialogue in research areas. Based on their availability and travel schedule, scientists will give formal lectures and presentations to faculty and students on a variety of topics. There is no cost to the host institution.
  
• Teach the Teachers
  Since 1997, Roche and the Santa Clara Valley Section of the American Chemical Society have sponsored "Teach the Teachers," an annual hands-on workshop for elementary and middle school science teachers. Held on the Roche campus in conjunction with National Chemistry Week, the event draws teachers from local school districts. A committee of teachers and Roche employees jointly organizes events. The "Teach the Teachers" workshop includes chemistry experiments and tours of Roche labs and facilities. Roche also provides participants with booklets, test kits and other materials for classroom use.
  
• Tech Museum of Innovation
  Roche is a founding member of the Tech Museum of Innovation in San Jose, which opened in 1998. Our diverse involvement with this creative science education center has included funding and helping to develop a multimedia exhibit as well as a major interactive exhibit on the impact of genetics on human health, teaching students the basic steps in discovering new medicines, and funding summer camp programs.
  

Health
Whether it is through financial support or moral support, we support organizations that help educate patient populations related to our research efforts. Some of our efforts include:

• American Lung Association
  We provide annual support that allows people in our community to become aware of various respiratory diseases and to learn about both disease prevention and treatment.
  
• Arthritis Foundation
  Arthritis is a major area of focus for Roche Palo Alto. The company provides funds to the Arthritis Foundation and has partnered with its Northern California Chapter in activities including a grant supporting osteoarthritis education programs.
  
• Breathe California
  Roche Palo Alto sponsors and hosts a rest stop for Breathe California’s annual “Bike for Breath” event in which hundreds of cyclists ride up to 62 miles to raise funds for a wide array of local lung disease education, prevention, research and patient assistance programs.