The prestigious TD Scholarships for Community Leadership celebrates 16 years of recognizing the outstanding achievements of Canadian youth

TORONTO, Oct. 5 /CNW/ - Do you or others around you consider yourself a leader who has brought about positive change in your community? Are you considering a post-secondary education but are concerned about the financial burden it might impose? If so, TD invites you to apply by October 31, 2010 for one of 20 TD Scholarships for Community Leadership valued at up to $70,000 each.

"TD scholarship winners are Canada's all-star team of high school students. From launching environmental restoration programs to introducing mental health awareness campaigns, winners are recognized for their commitment to community leadership, as well as their outstanding academic performance," said Tim Hockey, President and CEO, TD Canada Trust. "I'm excited to learn about this year's outstanding students and look forward to awarding 20 winners each with a scholarship of up to $70,000 to support the achievement of their future goals and dreams."

Since launching the program in 1995, TD has awarded scholarships to 300 recipients as part of its commitment to education and financial literacy. Each scholarship is valued at up to $70,000, including full tuition at any accredited university or college in Canada, mentorship opportunities, $7,500 a year towards living expenses and a guaranteed offer of summer employment at TD for up to four years.

"I have met some incredibly impressive students throughout my years working on the program," said Dr. Jane Thompson, Executive Director, TD Scholarships for Community Leadership. "The effect the funding and personal connections these scholarships have on student's educational and professional careers is extraordinary. I strongly encourage students to apply."

Dr. Thompson recommends the following tips for submitting a stellar application:

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    -  Write clearly and concisely - let your accomplishments shine through
    -  Consider the big picture - how have your actions impacted others?
    -  Apply early - don't risk accidentally missing the October 31, 2010
       deadline
    -  Read the requirements carefully - ensure you don't miss anything
    >>

To obtain an application, eligible students can:

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    -  Visit any TD Canada Trust branch or their high school guidance office
    -  Check out the website at www.tdcanadatrust.com/scholarship
    -  Call 1-800-308-8306 or send a fax requesting an application to
       (613) 563-9745
    >>

Completed applications must be returned by registered mail and postmarked no later than October 31, 2010 to:

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    Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada (AUCC)
    Ref: TD Scholarships for Community Leadership
    350 Albert Street
    Suite 600
    Ottawa, ON K1R 1B1
    >>

All applicants selected as finalists will be notified by mid-January 2011 and interviewed by a selected panel comprised of prominent Canadians in early February. Scholarship recipients will be notified soon after.

TD Community Giving

TD aims to build a more prosperous and inclusive future by engaging employees, customers, clients and partners to make a difference together. In Canada, community giving at TD is aligned to three priorities: education and financial literacy; creating opportunities for young people: and protecting and enhancing the environment. In 2009, TD donated $37 million to more than 2,500 organizations across Canada. For more information, visit www.td.com/corporateresponsibility.