Making spirits bright: $5.7 million raised on CIBC Miracle Day for children's charities around the world

On December 5, CIBC traders and investment advisors – together with clients, celebrities and partner charities - rallied to raise more than $5.7 million for children's charities as part of this year's CIBC Miracle Day.

Every year on the first Wednesday in December, CIBC Capital Markets and Wood Gundy employees donate their fees and commissions to help kids around the world access vital support services and programs.

"The incredible participation and support from our clients, team members and celebrities translates to helping thousands of kids," says Harry Culham, Senior Executive Vice-President and Group Head, Capital Markets, and Chair of the CIBC Children's Foundation. "It only takes one person to make a difference, and even greater things happen when our team rallies around a common purpose which is the spirit of Miracle Day."

CIBC's annual employee-driven event has raised over $100 million in Canada and $250 million globally since 1984, helping transform the lives of children and their families around the world.

"The kids are the real heroes of the day," added Mr. Culham. "We are so pleased to help them thrive and reach their potential."

CIBC Miracle Day funds have a global impact 365 days a year supporting non-profit organizations like Power to Be, a provider of outdoor education programs for kids and young adults living with a disability.

"The money that we receive from CIBC Miracle Day is core funding that we need to do the work," says Tim Cormode, Executive Director of Power to Be. "When somebody's living with paraplegia and says, 'I don't think I can ever get in that kayak,' and we figure out a way to help them do something they never thought they could do, it helps them to go back into their own communities with much more confidence. And it's not just the funds -- we've always had volunteers from CIBC come out and support our programs, and that always has a real impact."

Events took place this year in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, Halifax, New York, Chicago, London and Hong Kong.