Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide says it has been commended by the Chinese government for the international chain's role as exclusive hotel sponsor of Special Olympics and the 2007 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Shanghai.

Receiving the token of appreciation at a recent event from China Disabled Persons' Federation President Deng Pufang was Starwood China Senior Vice President for Operations Qian Jin.

"This unique global sponsorship will help increase public awareness of the Special Olympics, enhance our corporate social responsibility mission and further strengthen our brand presence in important travel markets and diverse local communities," said Qian Jin. "We are pleased and excited to be able to support our company's global mission with a series of marketing activities in close relation with the Special Olympics team in China from now, leading to the actual games in October."

Starwood announced in December last year of its three-year global partnership as the exclusive hotel sponsor of Special Olympics and the 2007 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Shanghai, China. The sponsorship includes financial and in-kind support from Starwood.

As part of the cause-related marketing campaign with Special Olympics, including the donation of US$50 to Special Olympics for every Westin Heavenly Bed, Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed and Four Points by Sheraton Four Comfort bed sold through Starwood retail channels that will close on June 30, 2007, Starwood China will be launching the Starwood-Special Olympics panda bears to be sold as souvenirs at the existing 38 Starwood hotels across the country to raise awareness and funds. These limited edition panda bears, named 'Kai Kai', which, in Chinese, means to wish all athletes great success in all that they do, will help drive the message of promoting understanding, acceptance and inclusion between people with and without intellectual disabilities.