LAS VEGAS, Sept. 22, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- MGM Resorts
International (NYSE: MGM) today announced that it would fund
vaccines needed in panda reserves at the China Conservation &
Research Center for the Giant Panda (CCRCGP). The
immunization program is run by Pandas International, a nonprofit
organization dedicated to providing public education, research
support and habitat preservation assistance for China's giant panda.
"Pandas International is most grateful for this donation, which
could not have come at a better time," said Suzanne Braden, Director of Pandas
International. "We are delighted to welcome MGM Resorts as one of
our program partners, especially recognizing the company's
continued efforts to care for and protect rare species."
Pandas International is a 15-year-old, U.S.-based organization
that helps four panda centers in China by offering veterinary equipment and
medical, hospital and laboratory supplies. With the help of
MGM Resorts, the nonprofit is responding to a deadly viral outbreak
affecting pandas in the regions of China's panda reserves. Medical equipment and
veterinary supplies such as vaccines are an essential and continual
need for panda centers, says Pandas International. The nonprofit
determines the pandas' urgent medical needs by working directly
with veterinarians and keepers in an effort to ensure the pandas
receive the best care possible.
With MGM Resorts' support, and by working with U.S. drug
manufacturers, Pandas International will deliver over 1,000
vaccines to protect pandas in the areas most impacted by the
disease.
"MGM Resorts is proud to join Pandas International's efforts to
protect giant pandas, including those in China facing this most recent outbreak," said
Jim Murren, Chairman and CEO of MGM
Resorts International. "This donation is an opportunity for MGM
Resorts to broaden our commitment to animal care and conservation,
which also includes our work with science and conservation
organizations to advance reproductive and behavioral animal
research."
The company operates two internationally-recognized facilities
in Las Vegas, Shark Reef Aquarium
at Mandalay Bay and The Secret Garden of Siegfried & Roy and
Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage. Both facilities engage the
public with educational programs, displays and tours that help
raise awareness for rare and endangered species.
For more information about MGM Resorts International's
commitment to corporate philanthropy, please visit
www.mgmresorts.com/csr.
About Pandas International
Pandas International is a non-profit organization devoted to
Saving the Giant Panda. The Giant Panda is one of the most
endangered species in the world. Scientists estimate the
current population as of the 2015 count in the wild at 1,864, with
another 400 in captivity around the world, so less than 2,300 are
left on the planet. Their survival is in peril.
Funds are used for medical equipment, veterinary supplies, and
the basic needs of veterinarians and hospitals at the Panda
Reserves in southern China.
Research, breeding programs, and educational programs to support
increased awareness of the plight of the Panda are also supported
by Pandas International.
About MGM Resorts International
MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) is one of the world's
leading global hospitality companies, operating a portfolio of
destination resort brands including Bellagio, MGM Grand, Mandalay
Bay and The Mirage. The Company is in the process of developing MGM
National Harbor in Maryland and
MGM Springfield in Massachusetts. The Company also owns 51
percent of MGM China Holdings Limited, which owns the MGM Macau
resort and casino and is developing a gaming resort in Cotai, and
50 percent of CityCenter in Las
Vegas, which features ARIA Resort & Casino. For more
information about MGM Resorts International, visit the Company's
website at www.mgmresorts.com.
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SOURCE MGM Resorts International