Thousands of RBC employees and retirees give back through the United Way to help build a better Canada

More than $17.6 million raised during annual campaign

TORONTO, Feb. 5, 2014 /CNW/ - Since 1927, RBC has consistently donated to the United Way. This year the company has raised over $17.6 million through employee giving campaigns 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 is committed to making a real difference in the lives of Canadians.

"I'm really proud of how RBC employees lead the way in contributing to their communities," said Gord Nixon, president and CEO, RBC. "They are generous, both financially and with their time. I know this year's contributions will have a tremendous impact on communities across the country."

Over $13.4 million was raised by employees and retirees, surpassing the previous year's total by $900,000. Over 21,000 RBC employees contributed through direct giving and fundraising events. In addition, the RBC Foundation provided

$4.2 million to United Way and other charities' campaigns across the country.

For the 17^th consecutive year, RBC is the top corporate supporter of the United Way movement.

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 79,000 full- and part-time employees who serve more than 15 million personal, business, public sector and institutional clients through offices in Canada, the U.S. and 44 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 2012 - 2013 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 2012, we contributed more than $95 million to causes worldwide, including donations and community investments of more than $64 million and $31 million in sponsorships.

SOURCE RBC