#United States #United Way #Chicago #BMO #Employee Giving

BMO Employees Contribute Over $36 Million to Charity

In an inspiring display of generosity, 91% of BMO’s workforce has collectively donated more than $36 million to support community organizations across North America from the bank’s annual Employee Giving campaign. This effort marks the 15th year of BMO’s long-standing collaboration with the United Way, with over $12 million of the total going directly to local United Way chapters.

Darryl White, CEO of BMO Financial Group, expressed pride in the campaign, stating that it underscored BMO's commitment to making a positive impact in the communities they serve. "This year's success reflects our Purpose, to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life, and our commitment to strengthening communities," he shared. The campaign's results not only exceeded a $29 million target but also highlighted BMO's longtime partnership with United Way, which works to mitigate social inequities.

From its inception, BMO has raised over $140 million over the past five years through this initiative, demonstrating sustained support for charitable efforts. According to Heather McDonald, the CEO and President of United Way Greater Toronto, the campaign's success represents thousands of employees choosing to contribute to local communities. Each contribution, regardless of size, builds a foundation for strengthening local agencies and providing essential services where they are most urgently needed.

Sean Garrett, President and CEO of United Way of Metro Chicago, emphasized the long-standing partnership with BMO, noting the bank's commitment to helping families meet their basic needs and facilitating transformative change in Chicago. He highlighted, "BMO truly sets the bar for what it means to give back." He praised the recent Employee Giving Campaign, stating, "We are thrilled to celebrate its immense success."

The Employee Giving Campaign kicked off on Giving Tuesday (December 2), with vibrant community engagement activities. Over 750 BMO volunteers participated in 16 kit packing events showing their dedication by assembling nearly 11,000 care kits tailored to local community needs. These kits included essentials such as hygiene products, cold weather gear, and literacy supplies.

BMO's partnership with United Way focuses on addressing crucial needs within communities, and in 2024 alone, the collaboration reached more than 3.7 million individuals, helping to alleviate economic hardships across various neighborhoods. BMO’s engagement and corporate social responsibility initiatives align with its mission to promote community welfare, consistently highlighting that helping communities thrive is integral to its business ethos.

As the seventh largest bank in North America by assets, with approximately $1.5 trillion in total assets as of October 31, 2025, BMO is deeply committed to driving positive change. The bank has a legacy of supporting community efforts, having contributed over $108 million to various charitable organizations last year alone. Employee volunteer hours also reached impressive figures, amounting to over 54,000 hours, and employee-driven donations totaled more than $39 million in annual campaigns.

BMO's initiative exemplifies what it means to fulfill corporate responsibility. By investing time, resources, and money into community efforts, BMO solidifies its role as a model for corporate giving, illustrating the profound impact that a network of dedicated employees can have on society. This year's campaign is not just about numbers; it's about individuals uniting to foster change and cultivate hope in communities across North America—truly embodying the bank’s motto that good grows here.