The Integration program’s goal is to improve the quality of life of surrounding communities by providing support in four key areas: health, the environment, family, and community involvement. The program includes our Integration Day at each operation. Volunteers, in partnership with local governments and members of the private sector, offer services free of charge including medical exams, environmental education and support completing legal documents. Our Integration Days have grown significantly in popularity since their inception five years ago. In 2011, community participation increased 23%, to over 100,000 attendees at our Brazilian, Chilean and Argentinian operations. A total of 47 initiatives in the areas of health, citizenship, environment and quality of life were supported
Our Partnership Seminar program supports projects that contribute to the sustainable development of local communities. We accept proposals to support local education, and environmental, cultural, economic and health initiatives. In 2011 we increased our percentage contribution to project funding to 85% from 70% previously. During the year, we supported 104 projects, an increase of 32% from 2010. We continue to encourage projects focused on job creation because of their contribution towards long-term financial sustainability.