OTTAWA, April 26, 2013 /CNW/ - CIBC (TSX: CM) (NYSE: CM) announced investments in local and national initiatives aligned to CIBC's strategic focus to invest in Kids, Cures and Community, in conjunction with its annual shareholder meeting in Ottawa.

"CIBC is committed to supporting organizations that help make our communities stronger and healthier," said Gerry McCaughey, President and CEO of CIBC. "We are focused on investing in young Canadians to help them build a better future; and on supporting those affected by cancer by investing in initiatives that bring hope and, one day, find a cure."

Supporting Kids
On May 1st, CIBC is joining Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada (BGCC) in an anti-bullying and belonging campaign known as National Day to End Bullying (www.belonging.ca). CIBC recognizes that bullying is a growing issue facing Canadian youth and believes strategies are needed to educate kids and parents to help promote healthy relationships in order for all children to feel a sense of safety and belonging and stop bullying before it starts.

Over the past 15 years, CIBC has contributed $170 million nationally in support of programs that provide children and youth-in-need with education, mentoring, leadership skills and healthy active living.

Supporting Cures
CIBC has made a $250,000 donation to the Ottawa Hospital to support the hospital's Breast Health Centre. CIBC's gift will assist The Ottawa Hospital enhance delivery of high-quality health care, strengthen professional collaboration and improve patient outcomes and experiences.

CIBC is committed to working with organizations that support research and services for people affected by breast cancer, as well as with programs focused on advocacy and treatment that make a difference in the lives of people living with the disease. Over the past 15 years CIBC and its employees have invested $135 million nationally in health care and research, with a focus on breast cancer.

Supporting Communities
CIBC is pleased to announce its $1 million sponsorship of the National Arts Centre (NAC) Gala. A vibrant hub for performance, creation, and learning, Canada's National Arts Centre encourages and inspires the passion and creativity of young people through the performing arts. The annual NAC Gala, presented by CIBC, supports the National Youth and Education Trust which: funds programming for young audiences; develops the world's best young artists; and supports performing arts education in Canadian classrooms.

CIBC is a leading North American financial institution with nearly 11 million personal banking and business clients. CIBC offers a full range of products and services through its comprehensive electronic banking network, branches and offices across Canada, and has offices in the United States and around the world. You can find other news releases and information about CIBC in our Press Centre on our corporate website at www.cibc.com.

SOURCE: CIBC