TORONTO, Oct. 5 /CNW/ - On Sunday, October 4, more than 13,000 CIBC employees, their families and friends took part in the 18th annual Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure, joining more than 170,000 participants in 56 communities all across Canada to raise $26.5 million. Early estimates show that Team CIBC together raised nearly $3 million through the collection of pledges, fundraising events and contributions from the CIBC Pink Collection™.

"We are committed to creating a future without breast cancer," said Sonia Baxendale, President, CIBC Retail Markets. "Our employees and their families and friends participate in the Run across the country. We are proud of the 6,000 employee volunteers who are dedicated to making this event such a tremendous success, helping raise more than $23 million since 1992.

"The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation is proud of the support of CIBC as the title sponsor for our major fundraising event. The efforts of CIBC employees, their enthusiasm and dedication, have made a significant contribution to the Foundation's vision," said Cheryl Hodder, Chair of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation National Board.

About CIBC

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 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 non-profit 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

About the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure

Since 1992, the annual Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure remains the largest, single-day, volunteer-led national event in Canada in support of breast cancer. The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation is the leading national volunteer-based organization dedicated to a vision of creating a future without breast cancer. The Foundation works collaboratively to fund, support, and advocate for: relevant and innovative breast cancer research; meaningful education and awareness programs; early diagnosis and effective treatment; and a positive quality of life for those living with breast cancer. Since its inception, the Foundation has invested over $170 million towards innovative research, education and awareness programs. For more information, visit www.cbcf.org

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