We recognize that our customers, communities, neighbors and investors have an interest in how we conduct ourselves and how we support our commitment to society.

Our philanthropy must reflect efficient, responsible, and ethical judgment and behavior. This is why Merck's Executive Committee and the Board Committee on Public Policy and Social Responsibility review our philanthropic programs and initiatives annually. In addition, the Office of Corporate Philanthropy and The Merck Company Foundation are periodically audited to ensure uniformity in our giving criteria and grant making; accuracy of outcomes data for our philanthropic programs; and compliance and transparency.

We use an online grants management system, which is global in reach. It allows qualified nonprofit organizations that are seeking cash contributions to electronically submit proposals and supporting documents. It also facilitates the submission of all required compliance documentation, before Merck reviews individual requests, and ensures uniform review of grant requests.

We manage our philanthropic giving through three mechanisms:

The Merck Company Foundation serves as the company's chief source of funding support to qualified nonprofit charitable and philanthropic organizations whose initiatives address important societal needs and whose goals are consistent with our giving priorities. Established in 1957, The Merck Company Foundation is a U.S.-based, private foundation funded entirely by Merck.

The Office of Corporate Philanthropy supports charitable programs through cash donations and employee volunteerism, which contribute not only to the health and well-being of people around the world, but also to Merck employees, our neighbors and others in communities where employees live and work and where the company conducts business. The Office of Corporate Philanthropy also coordinates Merck's disaster relief assistance throughout the world.

This office also engages with a range of stakeholders through initiatives that build healthcare capacity and manages donations of Merck's products. Through the Merck Medical Outreach Program, the primary mechanism through which Merck donates its pharmaceuticals, vaccines and consumer products for humanitarian assistance in the developing world and in support of disaster relief and emergencies worldwide. The Office of Corporate Responsibility manages the Merck MECTIZAN® Donation Program and vaccine-access programs in the developing world.

Charitable Grants

We report the charitable contributions made through the Office of Corporate Philanthropy and The Merck Company Foundation on our website. Information provided includes the names of recipient organizations, program names and descriptions, and amounts of the grants provided. Merck updates this information quarterly.