Employees and clients step up to help children in challenging donation climate

TORONTO, Dec. 20 /CNW/ - CIBC (CM: TSX; NYSE) - CIBC announced today that a record $4.1 million was raised for Canadian kids in need on CIBC Miracle Day, held on December 1, 2010. The amount raised on the day was the largest in the 26-year history of the campaign.

"At a time when so many charities are struggling for donations, I'm proud to announce that once again our employees and clients delivered to help children across the country," says Richard Nesbitt, Chairman and CEO, CIBC World Markets Inc. "The record $4.1 million is more than a 17 per cent increase over what we raised last year on CIBC Miracle Day and will ensure that thousands of kids in Canada have a brighter 2011. These funds will give children in their formative years access to a wide range of vital support services and enrichment opportunities."

Every year since 1984, on the first Wednesday in December, CIBC's wholesale banking employees and participating CIBC Wood Gundy investment advisors have donated their fees and commissions to support children in need across the country. In the past 26 years, CIBC Miracle Day has raised nearly $60 million in Canada.

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 2010, CIBC group of companies contributed $33.7 million to charitable and non-profit initiatives in Canada to support national, regional and local organizations. To learn more, visit www.cibc.com/communitymatters

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