News Releases

YAI/National Institute for People with Disabilities Network has selected BMO Capital Markets, the investment banking arm of BMO Financial Group (NYSE, TSX: BMO), as the recipient of its Corporation of the Year award for the firm's work in promoting education and diversity in the workplace.

The prestigious award is presented annually by the YAI/NIPD Network, an organization founded 50 years ago as the Young Adult Institute, to help individuals with developmental disabilities. Recent past recipients of the award have included KPMG, Avon, Time Inc. and BBDO.

“BMO Capital Markets was chosen because of its commitment to people with disabilities through employment initiatives and charitable funding,” said Dr. Philip H. Levy, President and COO of YAI, who, along with Dr. Joel M. Levy, CEO of YAI, will present the award to BMO at the agency's gala benefit dinner in New York City tomorrow. “We share the same goal which is to provide the best possible services to our members, ensuring the most ethical standards. We are proud to honor BMO Capital Markets for its unprecedented efforts.”

On hand to accept the award at YAI's Benefit for Hope Gala will be Eric Tripp, Co-President of BMO Capital Markets and the champion of his firm's Equity Through Education program, which raises money to assist organizations like YAI. Over the last two years BMO Capital Markets' Equity Through Education program has donated more than $425,000 to YAI to help individuals with development disabilities learn the skills necessary to gain meaningful employment. “We will continue to be an ardent supporter of YAI, and BMO is committed to creating an equitable and supportive work environment,” said Mr. Tripp. 

About YAI/NIPD

The YAI/National Institute for People with Disabilities Network is a not-for-profit health and human services organization serving people with developmental and learning disabilities and their families. YAI's array of services include, day services, employment training and placement, family supports, residential, recreation and camping. Visit www.yai.org for more information.

About BMO Capital Markets' Equity Through Education Program

BMO Capital Markets' Equity Through Education charitable program was launched in 2005 to support the belief that gaining an education is a means of improving lives. Last year a total of $1.4 million was raised across North America and donated to seven charities that manage programs whose mission includes improving access to education and training for people who otherwise might not have the opportunity. BMO Capital Markets is an investment bank offering a full array of services for issuing and investing clients and is a member of BMO Financial Group (NYSE, TSX:BMO). Visit www.bmo.com for more information.

- 30 -