National Bank Invests an Additional $1 million in Inspiring Projects for Young People

Thousands of youths
Hundreds of ideas and projects brought to life
Building a better community

MONTREAL, Sept. 28, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - National Bank is kicking off the second edition of its One for Youth program and will invest another $1 million in 2014 to support projects for young people (ages 0-25), across Canada. This amount adds to the $12 million in support provided by National Bank over the past five years for education, health care and many other initiatives. From September 29 to October 17, 2014, non-profit organizations (NPOs), elementary schools and high schools will be able to apply for up to $15,000 in financial support by submitting inspiring initiatives that are centred on health and wellness; education; and inspiring and empowering younger generations. This is over and above the involvement of National Bank employees who may also invest their time and expertise to make the selected initiatives a success.

"We take great pride in the thought that our support can help inspiring projects get a solid footing. Young people all across Canada are thinking big; they want to build communities that are healthier, more vibrant and welcoming. At National Bank, we feel it is our duty to help them develop to their full potential and be a partner in their success,"  underscored Karen Leggett, Executive Vice-President Marketing and Corporate Strategy at National Bank.

Over the next few months, 12 One for Youth regional committees, made up of a young person under the age of 25, community leaders and National Bank executives will be busy reviewing a great many inspiring applications. From coast to coast, these committees will select local and regional initiatives that could benefit from financial support or volunteers, based on the selection and eligibility criteria of the One for Youth program.

In 2013, this program helped 50,000 young Canadians develop confidence, a sense of pride and self-esteem. In all, 104 projects, including a greenhouse at school, a mobile library, and initiatives to help young people learn new skills, took shape to build a better community.

"I would like to send a special message to NPOs that work with youth and to elementary and high schools. Are you committed to fostering learning? To helping young people develop their talents and pursue their passions? To advocating a diverse and inclusive society? To promoting healthy lifestyles, mentoring up-and-coming entrepreneurs, or encouraging young people to get involved in their community? If so, we want to hear from you! Send us your ideas," added Ms. Leggett.

NPOs and schools must send in their initiatives to the One for Youth regional committees by completing the application form available online at nbc.ca/committees. For inspiration, take a look at the video on the committee's top choice from the first edition on YouTube.

ABOUT THE ONE FOR YOUTH PROGRAM
Each year, National Bank supports hundreds of Canadian organizations through its donations and sponsorships program. At the heart of this program is our involvement with young people, where a large proportion of our contributions are concentrated. Thanks to the youth program and various key projects, National Bank received the Outstanding Enterprise of the Year in Philanthropy award in the "over 250 employees" category from the Quebec chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

At National Bank, we know that young people represent our dreams and hopes for the future. We believe it is up to all of us to help the next generation develop to its fullest potential. Whether it's supporting medical research and access to care, promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles, or getting young people involved in their community, National Bank and its some 20,000 employees are proud to help today's youth grow and thrive.

ABOUT NATIONAL BANK OF CANADA
With $199 billion in assets as at July 31, 2014, National Bank of Canada (www.nbc.ca), together with its subsidiaries, forms one of Canada's leading integrated financial groups. The Bank has more than 20,000 employees and is widely recognized as a top employer. Its securities are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX:NA). Follow the Bank's activities via social media and learn more about its extensive community involvement at clearfacts.ca and commitment.nationalbank.ca.

SOURCE: National Bank of Canada

Source: Jean-François Lauzon, Advisor, Public Affairs, National Bank, Tel.: [phone], Email: [email protected]; For information/media requests: Camille Delacour, NATIONAL Public Relations, Tél.: [phone], Cell.: 514 998-5209, Email: [email protected]; Anik Le Marquand, NATIONAL Public Relations, Tel.: [phone], Cell.: 514 502-0578, Email.: [email protected]