MGM Resorts International Announces Funding For Critical Panda Vaccine Program

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.

SOURCE MGM Resorts International