Named 2012 Outstanding Corporation by Greater Toronto Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals

TORONTO, Nov. 21, 2012 /CNW/ - Scotiabank was honoured today to be named 2012 Outstanding Corporation by the Greater Toronto Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). The award was presented at their Annual Philanthropy Awards luncheon and recognized the Bank's excellence in giving and volunteering through its global Bright Future philanthropic program. Scotiabank was nominated by Willow Breast Cancer Support of Canada and was one of seven award recipients.

"It is a great honour to receive this award because giving back to the community has been an important part of the Scotiabank culture for 180 years," said Sue Graham Parker, Executive Vice President, Global Human Resources for Scotiabank.  "Our unique global Bright Future philanthropic program enables Scotiabankers worldwide to support their communities through fundraising, donating and volunteering.  It is a truly collaborative program that brings together the passion of our employees, the insight of our partners and the spirit of communities we serve across 55 countries."

The Philanthropy Awards celebrate the outstanding contribution of time, leadership and financial support of Canadians who set new benchmarks of excellence in the acts of giving and volunteering. The Greater Toronto Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) has honoured leadership in philanthropy through its annual awards program since 1995 and today announced the winners of the 2012 Philanthropy Awards in Toronto.

The Scotiabank Bright Future philanthropic program initiatives are aimed at being relevant to the community at a grassroots level and focus on six areas: health, education, social services, arts and culture, sports and the environment. Internationally, Bright Future focuses on the same areas but with an emphasis on charitable efforts supporting the well-being of children.

Recognized as a leader internationally and among Canadian corporations for charitable donations and philanthropic activities, Scotiabank has provided on average approximately $45 million annually to community causes around the world over each of the last five years. For more information please visit www.scotiabank.com

SOURCE: Scotiabank