TORONTO, Dec. 17 /CNW/ - The Canadian 4-H Council today announced they
are the happy recipient of a $50,000 grant from TD Bank Financial Group, which
will be used to create the TD 4-H Leaders Development Program. With up to
$5,000 available to each province, the program is designed to support new
volunteer training, the development of volunteer resource materials, and
guidelines on how to start and maintain a new 4-H Club.
    "The timing of the new TD 4-H Leaders Development Program is excellent as
we look to grow and strengthen our volunteer base across the country," said
Bob McAuley, Canadian 4-H Council President. "TD Bank Financial Group
recognizes the essential role volunteers play as 4-H continues to develop the
next generation of agricultural leaders."
    TD also supports the educational goals of 4-H members through the TD 4-H
Agriculture Scholarship, which provides a $2,000 scholarship to 10 students
annually. Combined with today's donation, TD Bank Financial Group has provided
$70,000 this year to support 4-H across Canada.
    "The Canadian agriculture industry is a global powerhouse, and to
maintain this position we need to ensure resources such as 4-H continue to be
available for youth who are interested in learning about and participating in
this field," said Craig Bremner, Vice President Agriculture Services, TD
Canada Trust. "TD has been focused on making a difference together with 4-H
since 1955 and we've been witness to the tremendously positive impact 4-H has
on its members. We believe this $50,000 donation will help 4-H enhance its
already impressive program."
    A generous supporter of the Canadian 4-H Council for the past 52 years,
TD Bank Financial Group is committed to helping students pursue their academic
goals. In addition to the TD 4-H Agriculture Scholarship, TD Bank Financial
Group participates in a range of community giving activities and programs
including the TD Canada Trust Scholarships for Community Leadership, TD
Canadian Children's Book Week and the TD Friends of the Environment
Foundation. The bank also supports a host of local, regional and national
programs across Canada promoting literacy and education, children's health and
the environment.

    The Canadian 4-H Council is a not-for-profit agency that co-ordinates all
national 4-H activities in Canada. Founded in 1933, the Council offers
conferences, exchanges, scholarships and international travel opportunities to
4-H members and leaders across the country.

For further information: Chris Forrest, Communications Manager, Canadian
4-H Council, (613) 234-4448 x. 27, cforrest@4-h-canada.ca; Megan McCabe, TD
Canada Trust, (519) 763-8251, megan.mccabe@td.com