Fourth generation Kennecott employee and Senior Advisor Community Outreach Chantae Lessard talks to Studio 5’s Darin Adams on site at the Bingham Canyon Mine Visitors Center.
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What drives Kennecott Utah Copper’s commitment to give back to the community?
Rio Tinto, the parent company of Kennecott, wants to be a leader in every community they do business in around the world. They feel a great responsibility to the environment and to people where they live and work — especially in Salt Lake. After all, they’ve been here more than 100 years. One of their stated goals a s a corporation is to “Actively participate in the affairs of the communities in which they operate by partnering with their local communities for “long-term mutual benefit.” Their donations are an ongoing fulfillment of that goal.
What role does the Bingham Canyon Mine Visitors Center play in helping the needy?
All of the proceeds from admission fees to the Visitors Center are donated to the truly needy in and around Salt Lake. Since 1992, more thatn 2.3 million people have visited the mine and more than $1.8 million have been donated to 150 local charities and non-profit organizations. so when you come to take in the breathtaking view of the mine or stand next to the big tire, you’re actually helping to help those in need right here in this community.
What are some of the groups that benefit from Kennecott’s community outreach?
The focus of the donations from the Center fees is to the truly needy — the homeless, the elderly and the disabled. Places like the Road Home, the Utah Food Bank, Utah Schools for The Deaf & The Blind adn the Salt Lake County Senior Centers. Each on is making a huge difference in the lives of the people they serve. Kennecott is grateful to the dedicated people who run these programs and the great compassion they show to so many.
Is Kennecott involved in any other community outreach programs?
Beyond the Kennecott Charitable Foundation, the Kennecott Comapnies give to a number of organizations throughout the community. In the last decade. Kennecott has donated several million dollars to various arts organizations, environmental organizations and educational institutions.
It makes all Kennecott employees proud to work for a company that cares about its community. It’s gratifying to know that they’re willing to extend a helping hand to someone who faces great and difficult challenges in life.
Why is Kennecott’s Visitors Center such a popular destination?
It begins with the spectacular views of the mine from the overlook. The mine is so big, it can be seen by the space shuttle astronauts as they pass over the United States. Inside the Visitors Center are historical photographs, interactive exhibits, and three-dimensional models that provide an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family. And, of course, outside on the plaza they have that really big tire. People love taking pictures in front of it.
Bingham Canyon Mine Visitors Center
The Visitors Center and overlook is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM from April 1 to October 31 (weather permitting). Call the Visitors Center info line at (801) 252-3234 for more information or visit them at www.kennecott.com for driving instructions.
Admission Fees:
Passenger Vehhicles $5.00
Mini Tour Bus $25.00
Tour Bus $50.00
School Buses Free
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