Sony has a global in-house volunteer program known as SOMEONE NEEDS YOU (the name developed using the letters S, O, N and Y), the aim of which is to encourage employee involvement in efforts to help local communities. Under this program, Sony Group companies create volunteer programs tailored to local needs and encourage continued employee participation in the community. In fiscal year 2011, a total of 180,000 Sony Group employees* participated in volunteer initiatives through SOMEONE NEEDS YOU.

To support employee participate in volunteer activities initiatives, Sony Corporation has an employee volunteer support system making it easier for employees to participate in volunteer activities by allowing them to use accumulated holidays for initiatives requiring extended leaves of absence.

Many Sony Group companies have "matching gift programs," whereby Sony matches charitable donations made by employees up to established limits to encourage employees' fundraising efforts.

The number of organizations recognized by Sony Group companies in Japan as being valid donation recipients has been broadened to include legal entities for social interest authorized by Japan's Ministry of Finance, foundations, aggregate corporations, authorized NGOs and social welfare corporations.

In addition to the matching gift programs, Sony has implemented several methods for donation to make it easier for employees to participate in efforts to raise funds for emergency humanitarian assistance. Donation by bank transfer became available with the cooperation of Sony Group financial services company, Sony Bank Inc. Also, donation by Rakuten Edy-a prepaid electronic money service incorporating FeliCa, Sony's contactless IC card technology-is also possible.