 |
 |
|
||
     |
Philanthropic Activities: Lilly's Responsibility as a Global Corporate CitizenThe mission of Eli Lilly and Company is to create and deliver superior health care solutions to people worldwide. In addition to this direct contribution to society, Lilly also acknowledges the company's responsibility as a global corporate citizen through a philanthropic program that includes financial grants, the donation of products to the world's indigent and disaster victims, matching gifts to organizations that share our goals for people, and the volunteer time and expertise of our employees. In 1997, Lilly made cash and product donations totaling over $100 million.Product DonationsOne of the primary means through which Lilly continues to enhance the company's role as a global corporate citizen is the contribution of products worldwide for disaster assistance and international relief. Lilly's history of providing such assistance began in 1906, when it responded to a request for medicines for the victims of the San Francisco earthquake. In 1997, Lilly contributed $20 million worth of product to international relief efforts in areas such as Vietnam, China, the Czech Republic, Mexico, and Pakistan. These pharmaceutical products typically are distributed through international aid organizations. Lilly is also an active participant in the ongoing review of the World Health Organization's guidelines for drug donations, including the company's role as a primary organizer of a 1997 conference that brought together for the first time the full spectrum of stakeholders in the issue of drug donations. Lilly Cares is a long-standing indigent patient program established by Lilly to offer free medications, through physicians, to all Americans regardless of their ability to pay. In 1997, the company provided pharmaceutical products valued at $52 million to those in need.Financial ContributionsIn addition to product donations, Lilly makes financial contributions to support improvements in health care around the globe. The company has continued its history of being a leader in diabetes care by making grants totally $120,000 to the Hungarian Diabetes Association from 1995 through 1997. These grants were for the improvement of diabetes care standards in Hungary and were expected to benefit over 30,000 diabetes patients. In 1997 Lilly gave the American Red Cross $1 million to train mental health professionals who assist victims, families and relief workers during times of disaster.Employee Directed ContributionsLilly encourages employees to make both financial contributions and gifts of their time and expertise to organizations that enrich the quality of life in local communities. Through the Matching Gifts Program, Lilly matches the financial contributions of U.S. employees, retirees, and board members to qualifying educational, cultural, and health care organizations of their choice. Lilly also matches the gifts pledged by employees and retirees to the United Way, a recipient in the area of health and human services. In 1997, these two programs directed more than $12 million to such organizations.Volunteer ActivitiesLilly also recognizes the important role that volunteers play in the success of community organizations. Two volunteer programs which Lilly actively supports are Habitat for Humanity and the United Way Day of Caring. Habitat for Humanity provides affordable housing for people in need, and Lilly has provided resources in the form of volunteers and funding to support this effort. Lilly employees participate in the Day of Caring by volunteering their time to United Way agencies and the people they serve. |
|||
