RBC employees and retirees help Canadians in need

A record $19.4 million raised during annual employee giving campaign

TORONTO, Feb. 10, 2015 /CNW/ - The act of offering time or money to a community, cause or organization is often a very personal decision. A connection, whether through family or friends, can be the driver of choice and effort. This year RBCers made those connections and raised a record $19.4 million through its national employee giving campaign "for the Love of Community" and corporate donations. RBC has a long-standing tradition of supporting community-based organizations and this fundraising initiative is just one of the ways RBC, its employees and retirees are committed to making a real difference in the lives of Canadians.

"Our employees and retirees continue to lead the way in giving back to our communities and making a difference," said Dave McKay, president and CEO, RBC. "Whether it's volunteering in local programs, or contributing through the United Way campaign, their generosity and desire to get involved is a testament to how much they care about helping Canadians in need."

RBC employees and retirees raised $15.3 million, surpassing the previous year's total by $1.9 million. Over 23,000 RBC employees contributed through personal donations, volunteering and fundraising events. In addition, the RBC Foundation provided $4.1 million to the United Way and other charities across Canada.

Since 1927, RBC has consistently donated to the United Way and for the 18^th consecutive year, RBC is the top corporate supporter of the United Way movement.

In 2014, we invested more than $111 million in community efforts, shared our expertise and provided nearly 2,500 RBC Employee Volunteer grants recognizing employees and retirees for the good works they do in their personal time, by volunteering in their communities.

About RBC's commitment to community and sustainability
Royal Bank of Canada (RY on TSX and NYSE) is Canada's largest bank and one of the largest banks in the world, based on market capitalization. We employ approximately 78,000 full- and part-time employees who serve more than 16 million personal, business, public sector and institutional clients through offices in Canada, the U.S. and 38 other countries. For more information, please visit rbc.com. RBC is recognized among the world's financial, social and environmental leaders and is listed on the 2015 Dow Jones Sustainability World Index, the DJSI North American Index, the Jantzi Social Index and the FTSE4Good Index. RBC is one of Canada's Greenest Employers, and one of Canada's 50 Most Socially Responsible Corporations. Learn more at www.rbc.com/community-sustainability.

RBC supports a broad range of community initiatives through donations, sponsorships and employee volunteer activities. In 2014, we contributed more than $111 million to causes worldwide, including donations and community investments of more than $76 million and $35 million in sponsorships.

SOURCE RBC

André Roberts, RBC Communications, 416-313-7436