Laplink for Maker Mask

Laplink® Software, Inc., the global leader in PC migration and creator of the only software of its kind recommended by Microsoft®, Intel® and all major PC manufacturers, and Maker Mask, a nonprofit, rapidly-growing grassroots ecosystem and digital platform response to the COVID-19 crisis organized by leaders of technology, industry and government, today announced that the organizations are working together to boost the production of respirator-style masks for the public and essential workers. Laplink has donated $10,000 to Maker Mask to support this critical initiative – and will focus its upcoming 37th anniversary sales promotions around additional support for the nonprofit.

“The world is at a critical tipping point in its battle with COVID-19, and at Laplink we want to do everything we can to support communities who are fighting to defeat this virus,” said Koll. “Not only are we donating now, but instead of our traditional anniversary activities, we’ll change the focus to supporting Maker Mask. Our hope is that we can drive more awareness of their important mission in addition to our financial support.” 
 
According to Jonathan Roberts, leader of the Maker Mask Initiative, the donation will be used to offset some of the costs of mask-making materials and other operational expenses as the nonprofit organization continues to support the Maker Mask network.

“I’ve known Thomas for more than 30 years from the time when we worked together at Microsoft. I appreciate his support not only as the CEO of Laplink Software, but also as a friend. The COVID-19 pandemic is an ‘all hands on deck’ crisis and Maker Mask is thankful for the help that his company is applying to this part of the COVID-19 response,” said Roberts, co-founder of nonprofit RPrime and founding partner at Ignition Partners. "This donation will be very helpful as we work to provide support to the Maker Mask network of makers around the world. We believe that it's more important than ever before for us to build a global supply chain powered by community-based small batch production sites to ensure resiliency during times of crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic."

While the article about Maker Mask that the Microsoft Alumni Network sent out was intended to highlight how former Microsoft employees are having a positive impact on their world, not as a request for financial support, everyone involved is happy how it turned out.

“During times of crisis, to make a big impact quickly, you must rely on your connections. The Microsoft Alumni Network is proud to facilitate alumni supporting fellow alumni – that’s the power of the Network,” said Ali Spain, Executive Director of the Microsoft Alumni Network. “In the case of Microsoft alumni Jonathan Roberts of Maker Mask and Thomas Koll of Laplink Software, we were able to facilitate a quick connection after Thomas read the story about the Maker Mask Initiative in our alumni news.”

Read the rest of the press release