Supporting United Way for over 45 years to create stronger and healthier
    communities for families to live, work and raise their childrenTORONTO, Jan. 14 /CNW/ - CIBC (CM: TSX;NYSE) - CIBC employees and
retirees have once again opened their wallets to generously support United Way
of Canada - Centraide Canada and its work towards improving the social
conditions of Canadians. CIBC raised a total of $7 million, including a $2.9
million corporate donation, for United Way in 2008.
    "In challenging economic times like today, it's more important than ever
to help support those who truly need it," said Gerry McCaughey, CIBC's
President and Chief Executive Officer. "Whether it is individual employees
volunteering at United Way agencies, or a small group of employees organizing
an annual hockey tournament to raise funds, contributing to United Way makes a
meaningful difference in peoples' lives, and makes our communities stronger
and more vibrant."
    CIBC, its employees and retirees have a long history of supporting United
Way through their fundraising efforts and personal donations. Thousands of
CIBC employees dedicate their time to this worthy cause.
    "Thank you, CIBC, for your continued generosity and leadership in
supporting United Way with this gift. It demonstrates CIBC's compassion and
commitment to building better communities for everyone," said Al Hatton,
President and Chief Executive Officer, of United Way of Canada. "Contributions
to United Way support a broad range of social programs and services that are
focused on critical areas in local communities, such as assisting families
dealing with poverty, supporting people with a disability or health condition,
helping newcomers with their transition into Canada, and assisting young
people realize their goals. When we help others, we also help ourselves."
    United Way of Canada - Centraide Canada (UWC-CC) is a national
organization providing support for the 119 United Ways - Centraides across
Canada. It acts as a voice for its members within the Canadian voluntary
sector and internationally and provides leadership, programs and services to
its members.
    CIBC is committed to supporting causes that matter to our clients, our
employees and our communities. We aim to make a difference in communities
through corporate donations, sponsorships and the volunteer spirit of
employees. With a strategic focus on youth, education and health, and employee
commitment to causes including the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run
for the Cure, the CIBC World Markets Children's Foundation and United Way, we
are investing in the social and economic development of communities across the
country. In 2008, CIBC group of companies contributed more than $36 million
worldwide to charitable and nonprofit initiatives. Of this, more than $27
million was invested in Canada to support national, regional and local
organizations. To learn more, visit www.cibc.com/pas