LAS VEGAS, Jan. 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Governor Brian Sandoval has awarded MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) the 11^th Annual Nevada Governor's Points of Light Award for its employee volunteer initiative.

The recognition comes on the heels of MGM Resorts' announcement that in 2012, employees donated more than 113,000 volunteer hours to the community, far surpassing the corporate goal of 100,000 hours set by Jim Murren, Chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts. A total of 850 charitable organizations benefited from the employees' community service last year.

The value of time donated by MGM Resorts' employees is estimated at more than $2.1 million, according to the Independent Sector, an organization that calculates the value of volunteer work. In Nevada, each hour of volunteer work is worth $18.82.

"It's true that these are challenging times for our state and nation," said Gov. Sandoval. "Volunteerism, like charitable giving, has suffered a bit as families look inward. And yet, in every corner of our state, members of the Nevada family continue to step up and give up their time. So today, we proudly recognize some stand-out individuals and organizations who have given of their time, treasure and talent." 

The Governor's Points of Light Awards highlight service by honoring outstanding volunteers and volunteer programs across the state with finalists and award recipients in six separate categories. MGM Resorts is the first company in the gaming industry to receive the prestigious award. 

"Thanks to the tireless efforts of our employees, last year's volunteer challenge was met with great enthusiasm," Murren said. He applauded employees.  "Continue to inspire your coworkers to make a difference and keep up the great work that you personally put into making our Company, community, and world a better place."

MGM Resorts' volunteer efforts serve as a bright spot for Nevada's reputation in the area of volunteerism. According to a Corporation for National and Community Service national study, Nevada ranks 48 out of 51 states and Washington, D.C. for its citizen volunteer rate. Nevada moved up two rankings since 2010. MGM Resorts employees hope their collective efforts will continue to help improve this ranking. 

One way they are showing their commitment is by introducing the new Volunteer Rewards Program. On a bi-monthly basis the company will run a report through VolunteerMatch to track employees' volunteer hours and celebrate designated benchmarks. Rewards include certificates, special volunteer bracelets, logoed cups, trophies, and money donated back to nonprofits of their choice.

For more information about MGM Resorts International's volunteer program, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit: http://www.mgmresorts.com/offers/2012/07_annualcorporatesocialresponsibilityreport/index.html.

About MGM Resorts International
MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) is one of the world's leading global hospitality companies, operating destination resort brands including Bellagio, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay and The Mirage. The Company also owns 51% of MGM China Holdings Limited, which owns the MGM Macau resort and casino and is in the process of developing a gaming resort in Cotai, and 50% of CityCenter in Las Vegas, which features ARIA resort and casino.  For more information about MGM Resorts International, visit the Company's website at www.mgmresorts.com. 

SOURCE MGM Resorts International