Scotiabank Rat Race for United Way attracts over 1,000 runners

    TORONTO, June 14 /CNW/ - Once the rat-packs start to scurry, there's no
stopping them! Over 1,000 runners - many in "cheesy" rat-inspired costumes -
from across the city converged at Scotia Plaza tonight to take part in the 7th
Annual Scotiabank Rat Race for United Way.
    The Scotiabank Rat Race for United Way brought together over
1,000 runners, dressed in their "cheesiest" attire to participate in the 5km
event and "Big Cheese" after-party, to benefit the community. Proceeds from
the event will support United Way's work in Toronto's inner suburban
neighbourhoods and its network of 200 health and social service agencies,
strengthening lives and neighbourhoods across the city to build a better city
for us all.
    "The 2007 Scotiabank Rat Race for United Way continued the seven year
tradition of bringing people together for an energetic event and a great
cause," said Susan McIsaac, Vice President, Resource Development, United Way
of Greater Toronto. "Events like this help ensure youth have meaningful
opportunities to succeed, newcomers have access to employment in their chosen
field and neighbourhoods across Toronto are healthy and safe."
    McIsaac was joined by Michael Hayes, Senior Vice-President Customer
Contact Centres, Scotiabank.
    "Scotiabank is proud to continue to show leadership in supporting the
communities in which we live and work," said Mike Hayes. "The Scotiabank Rat
Race is always a fun summer event that brings the Bay Street business
community together in support of United Way - it is wonderful to see so many
people involved in supporting such a great cause."Event highlights:
    -   Live entertainment including performances by circus troupe Zero
        Gravity Circus and DJ Timmy Shane
    -   Fitness and sports injury seminar led by Nicky Billou, fitness
        company Tranz4m
    -   Energetic warm-up by YMCA dancers
    -   "Big Cheese" after-party featuring live entertainment and
        performances, and prizesThe 2007 Scotiabank Rat Race is made possible thanks to the generous
support of title sponsor Scotiabank and media sponsors The Globe and Mail,
CHFI and 680News.

    Scotiabank is committed to supporting the communities in which we live
and work, both in Canada and abroad. Recognized as a leader internationally
and among Canadian corporations for its charitable donations and philanthropic
activities, in 2006 the Bank provided more than $42 million in sponsorships
and donations to a variety of projects and initiatives, primarily in the areas
of healthcare, education, social services and arts and culture. Scotiabank is
on the World Wide Web at www.scotiabank.com.

    Established in 1956, United Way of Greater Toronto is a registered
charity and community impact organization dedicated to improving lives and
strengthening neighbourhoods across Toronto. United Way identifies needs and
takes action to create a better, safer, stronger city through research,
partnerships and support of a network of 200 health and social service
agencies.

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