We work closely with stakeholders to maximize the positive impact we have on the communities where we operate. We support employees and their families, local businesses, charitable organizations, schools, Aboriginal and other community groups so that everyone may have a higher quality of life and benefit from our activities.Our goal is to work collaboratively with our stakeholders to support activities that are of benefit to the communities in which the company operates.

Approach

No two communities are the same. As such, our approach to engagement varies by operation to best address the challenges and opportunities facing each one. We support local communities through engagement, social investment and decision-making strategies.

Throughout the year, our public affairs representatives formally engage with the community and serve as the face of Cliffs. They sit on boards of community and business organizations at regional and local levels, participate in discussions with government officials and act as a point of contact within the community. In doing so, they keep our stakeholders apprised of critical issues to the operations, understand important topics in the community and seek to listen to any questions or concerns. This strategy allows Cliffs to maintain an ongoing relationship with stakeholders and collaborate with communities to find solutions should any issues arise.

Philanthropy

We make contributions to our communities locally through mine and corporate donations, as well as our charitable funds, The Cliffs Foundation (North America) and the Cliffs Community Fund (Asia Pacific).

In addition to monetary contributions, we promote volunteer opportunities and initiatives. While philanthropic engagement by our employees is extensive, examples include serving as role models for Big Brothers and Big Sisters, participating in building homes through Habitat for Humanity, and donating time serving meals and providing support at Ronald McDonald Houses. Our employees also make significant contributions to local United Way chapters through donations and as board members and volunteers.

Public Policy

We play an active role in the development of laws, regulations and community initiatives that affect, or have the potential to affect, our Company and our stakeholders. We also contribute to the development of industry-wide public policy positions through involvement in the states where we operate and federal trade associations to which we belong. Cliffs’ public policy advocacy is carried out by registered lobbyists with strict adherence to state and federal lobbying and ethics laws.

As a company, we do not endorse candidates for elected office. However, we do encourage our employees to become active in their communities, volunteer, and contribute to the political party and candidates of their choice.