CIBC helps student stick it to cancer

Donating $1 for every "Like" on Minor Hockey Fights Cancer Facebook page

TORONTO, April 4, 2012 /CNW/ - CIBC (TSX: CM) (NYSE: CM) is proud to launch a Facebook campaign today to support 13 year old Mark Mannarn's Minor Hockey Fights Cancer (MHFC) initiative and will donate $1 to a maximum of $25,000 for every "Like" generated on the MHFC Facebook page.

"After losing my Grandmother and then seeing my Mom's courageous battle, I wanted to do something that makes a difference," says Mark.  "With 'Feel Like a Pro Day', kids like me can get involved in the fight against cancer while doing a sport they love. CIBC and its employees have been great champions of Minor Hockey Fights Cancer and I am very thankful for their support."

Mark, who will tell you that he "loves hockey and hates cancer" established Minor Hockey Fights Cancer 'Feel Like a Pro Day' in 2011 to encourage kids aged 4-16 to raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society for a chance to participate in on-ice hockey drills with current and former pro hockey players. The event, which raised $200,000 last year, takes place June 16 at Canlan Ice Sports York at York University in Toronto.

Mark is the son of CIBC employee Art Mannarn. In addition to raising funds, his goal is to encourage other kids to create similar events across the country to raise the funds that will help people like his mom.

CIBC's campaign runs until June 15, 2012. For more information, visit www.minorhockeyfightscancer.ca or 'Like' www.facebook.com/MinorHockeyFightsCancer.

CIBC's involvement in Minor Hockey Fights Cancer is part of a long-term commitment to supporting cancer initiatives, including more than 15 years as title sponsor of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure.

CIBC is a leading North American financial institution with nearly 11 million personal banking and business clients. 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. In 2011, CIBC contributed more than $35 million to charitable and non-profit initiatives in Canada to support national, regional and local organizations.

You can find other news releases and information about CIBC in our Press Centre on our corporate website at www.cibc.com.

Image with caption: "Thirteen year old Mark Mannarn's started Minor Hockey Fights Cancer 'Feel Like a Pro Day' so kids like himself can get involved in the fight against cancer while doing a sport they love. (CNW Group/CIBC)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20120404_C2927_PHOTO_EN_11917.jpg

Media contact: Sean Hamilton, Director, CIBC External Communications, 416-304-8456