CIBC Youthvision Scholarship provides tuition support and paid internships

TORONTO, Sept. 19, 2011 /CNW/ - CIBC (CM: TSX) (CM: NYSE) Grade 10 student, Kenneth Yan, has been awarded a CIBC Youthvision^TM Scholarship valued at up to $36,000.

"My Big Brother really wanted me to apply for this scholarship, but I didn't think I would get. When I found out I was being awarded the scholarship I was so excited and happy for my future. Without this scholarship I wouldn't have the money available to go to University," said Kenneth.

Kenneth lives in single-parent home in Regent Park and travels to the Yonge-Eglinton area to attend Nothern Secondary school.

"It's a really great school and it's worth the travel time. I'm on the football team and part of the tutoring program. I get to play piano and I also lifeguard at the community centre."

Early intervention in Grade 10 makes this scholarship program unique in Canada. CIBC Youthvision^TM targets high-potential young people who might not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue a university or college education. To be eligible Grade 10 students must be enrolled in a mentoring program with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada or the YMCA.

"Congratulations to Kenneth on being awarded a CIBC Youthvision Scholarship," said Larry Tomei, CIBC Senior Vice-President for Central Canada. "Kenneth was selected for his success in school, the support he provides his family and the volunteer work he does. We are proud to support such an outstanding individual."

On September 21, 2011 Young and Bloor CIBC Banking Centre will present Kenneth six summer internships through the YMCA that begin right after Grade 10, valued at up to $20,000 and tuition for four years, valued at up to $16,000. He will receive ongoing mentoring from either Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada or YMCA until he graduates from university. In addition, he will take part in CIBC Money Smarts for Students Seminar to help him shape his financial future as he prepares to head off to college or university.

Youthvision^TM Alumnus Jennifer Atwell, now a 25-year-old, University of Western Ontario graduate and Big Brother Big Sister of Toronto employee will be at the presentation to offer advice to this year's recipients.

"Try to take in what a great gift this is. There are a lot of scholarships out there, but this one is amazing because it pays a portion of tuition and includes a paid internship. The work helped me build a resume and get a job faster. Take advantage of the opportunity being given to you. It will change your life."

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 approximately $34 million to charitable and non-profit initiatives in Canada to support national, regional and local organizations. To learn more, visit www.cibc.com

Young and Bloor CIBC Banking is located at 2 Bloor Street West, Toronto ON The presentation will begin on September 21, 2011 at 4:15 pm.