LAS VEGAS—MGM Resorts International marked World Water Day (March 22) with a pledge of $1 million to support the mission of ONE DROP, a global non-governmental organization that promotes global awareness of the central role of water. ONE DROP was initiated by Guy Laliberté, founder of Cirque du Soleil, and is dedicated to fighting poverty through projects aimed at supporting access to water, and raising awareness of water-related issues.
“At MGM Resorts, environmental sustainability is a key pillar of our vision for social responsibility,” said Jim Murren, the company’s chairman & CEO. “We are proud to be a leader in the stewardship of water and the environment in the communities in which we operate, and to join with ONE DROP in developing programs locally and globally that promote a comprehensive and strategic approach to water stewardship.”
Murren said the pledge would be made over five years and is in addition to the donation of ticket proceeds of Las Vegas-based Cirque du Soleil shows during “One Week for ONE DROP” in the week that coincided with World Water Day.
“Today, MGM joins us to act in order to achieve my dream of safe water for all, today and tomorrow,” said Guy Laliberté, who also serves as president of ONE DROP. “Employees, artists, partners, and friends all come together this week and all year long to support ONE DROP and to act to protect water, one of the most precious resources on Earth. I am touched to see that we can create a ripple effect. ONE DROP will continue to hold out a hand to the whole world to make this dream a reality, one drop at a time, one step at a time, for future generations.”
The United Nations World Water Day is observed on March 22 to spotlight the importance of freshwater and the sustainable management of freshwater resources. In addition, a senior MGM Resorts leader will become a member of the Board of Directors of ONE DROP to help guide the organization’s work.
Go to MGM Resorts, Cirque du Soleil, and ONE DROP.
