| BMO Financial Group Employees Give $2.7 Million to Greater Toronto Area Charities TORONTO, April 28, 2009 – BMO Employee Charitable Foundation hosted a Celebration of Giving this evening, to distribute funds to 56 Greater Toronto Area charitable organizations. BMO Financial Group employees and representatives from various supported charitable groups gathered at First Canadian Place in Toronto tonight to celebrate the culmination of a year of employee-driven fundraising efforts by the Foundation.
100 per cent of donations provided through the Foundation are disbursed to charities across Canada, as BMO Financial Group covers all administrative costs. “This evening’s Celebration of Giving recognizes the tremendous work of these charities and the unwavering support of BMO employees,” said Bill Downe, President and CEO, BMO Financial Group and the United Way Toronto’s Campaign Chair for 2009. “We invest in the well being of the neighbourhoods, towns and regions we serve, because we are a part of them,” continued Downe. “Our commitment to helping meet the needs of the many organizations and groups that make our communities strong is driven by the people who work here. It's something we approach the same way we do every other part of our business: with a full-time commitment.” “We are thrilled that BMO employees have once again joined together to support the Foundation’s fundraising campaign,” said David Montgomery, Director, Ontario Region, BMO Employee Charitable Foundation. “2008 results have been a tremendous achievement, and we are looking forward to increasing our charitable support in our upcoming 2009/2010 campaign.” "Once again, BMO Financial Group employees have demonstrated their giving spirit as they strive to improve people's lives," said Christina Politis, Campaign Director, United Way Toronto – recipients of $1.4 million from BMO employees in 2008. "At United Way, we share the belief that together we can build a stronger community for all, and our partnership with BMO Financial Group enables us to create opportunities for a better life for everyone. During this time of economic uncertainty for thousands of people, this evening is a fine example of how together, we can put our shared aspirations to work to strengthen our communities." Listed below are the recipient organizations of this donation: Alzheimer Society - Ontario Division BMO Employee Charitable Foundation improves the lives of those in need by supporting thousands of registered charities in Canada through the generous support of the employees, pensioned employees, customers and friends of BMO Financial Group. Since 1999, the Foundation has raised over $64 million for more than 3,000 charities across the country through the efforts and generosity of BMO Financial Group employees and customers. - 30 - For news media inquiries, please contact: (416) 867-3996 |