$33 million raised last year for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation

TORONTO, Sept. 8, 2011 /CNW/ - CIBC (TSX:CM) (NYSE:CM) employees across Ontario and across the country are celebrating Think Pink Week September 12 to 16 to build awareness of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure, which last year raised a record $33 million to support breast cancer research, education, advocacy and treatment.

In Toronto, CIBC's annual kick-off event will take place on Tuesday, September 13 in the courtyard at Commerce Court. The event will feature entertainment, refreshments, games and a silent auction, as well as remarks by CIBC executives and a breast cancer survivor. Olympic medalist and CIBC employee Heather Davis, who is featured in CIBC's Run for the Cure campaign ads, will also attend.

"Breast cancer is a cause that's very close to our hearts at CIBC, because it impacts so many Canadians, including many of our clients, colleagues and loved ones," said Christina Kramer, CIBC's Executive Vice-President and the bank's National Run Champion. "Our employees are so proud to join with thousands of people across the country to raise funds for and participate in the CIBC Run for the Cure as we celebrate our 15^th anniversary as title sponsor.

"Despite enormous advances, breast cancer continues to be the most common cancer in Canadian women, affecting 1 in 9 women during their lifetimes. That's why CIBC continues to be so committed to supporting the Foundation's work."

Toronto Think Pink Week Event Kick-Off Event

"The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation is proud of the longstanding support of CIBC, true champions of the breast cancer cause. We hope Canadians are inspired to take part in Think Pink week activities across Canada and support the Run for the Cure," said Diane Gordon, Vice President Development Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation - Central office. "In 2010, the fundraising efforts of more than 170,000 participants allowed the Foundation to invest in research and education initiatives to address prevention and early detection, improving treatment and quality of life for those affected by breast cancer."

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 support of creating a future without breast cancer. In 2010, close to 170,000 participants raised $33 million to fund innovative breast cancer research, education and awareness programs. On Sunday, October 2, 2011, this national movement will connect participants and volunteers in 59 communities across the country to support our vision of creating a future without breast cancer. For more information, visit www.cbcf.org.

About CIBC
CIBC is committed to supporting causes that matter to our clients, 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, $33.7 million was contributed through the CIBC group of companies to charitable and non-profit initiatives in Canada, supporting a wide variety of national, regional and local organizations. To learn more, visit www.communitymatters.cibc.com.

About the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation - 25 Years of Progress
For the last 25 years, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation has been at the forefront of a nation-wide movement to raise awareness and mobilize action on breast cancer. Today, the Foundation is the leading organization in Canada dedicated to creating a future without breast cancer. Since 1986, from coast to coast, we have invested over $230 million to fund vital research, education and health promotion programs that have led progress in breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care. Visit cbcf.org and join the movement.