News Releases

BMO Financial Group Announces Community Hero of the Game Geoff McBride of Toronto Recognized at Toronto FC Game

TORONTO, June 2, 2008 – BMO Financial Group has discovered another jewel in the community of volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to make Toronto a better place to live. Geoff McBride, a Toronto Emergency Medical Services employee, was honoured as the BMO Community Hero of the Game during Saturday's match between Toronto FC and the Los Angeles Galaxy at BMO Field.

McBride, a Toronto Emergency Medical Services employee, contributes much of his time to his community by becoming involved in numerous fundraisers and community programs and organizations. He has participated in various fundraising events such as a bed race for Toronto East General Hospital, Jane and Finch bike ride for kids and a chocolate race for Princess Margaret Hospital.

McBride's volunteer time has been dedicated to teaching people of all ages health and safety topics. He teaches a course preventing alcohol and risk related trauma in youth through a program at Sunnybrook, traffic safety to elementary students through Toronto Police Traffic Services, and CPR/AED for a cardiac-safe city.

McBride received two jerseys and two tickets and was on the field during the coin toss with the two captains and referees. He appeared on the jumbotron and his name and story were announced on the speakers.

As part of the bank's presenting sponsorship agreement with the team, BMO Financial Group and the Toronto FC are joining forces to recognize a Community Hero of the Game before every Toronto FC home game this year. The program recognizes individuals who generously give their time and talents to help our communities thrive. Nomination forms are available at torontofc.ca.

BMO Financial Group is proud to support soccer across Canada from mini-soccer players to the professional level. Our deep commitment to the beautiful game of soccer is evident from the beginning of the curve with our grassroots branch sponsorship of close to 300 youth teams nationally and sponsorship of 200 mini-festivals across the country. The relationship continues along through our title support of elite youth players with our BMO National Championships through to our professional teams support (TFC & Vancouver Whitecaps) combined with soccer venue title sponsorship (BMO Field).

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