More than 6,200 climb the CN Tower to help fight climate change

“I am truly humbled by the overwhelming number of supporters who came out to climb and fundraise for WWF-Canada,” said Gerald Butts, President and CEO of WWF-Canada. “Climate change continues to be a major concern for Canadians and today, thousands took steps to be part of the solution.”

The Public Climb was a huge success with more than 4,400 people climbing the Tower. The line-up to register began at 4:30 a.m. and didn’t end until registration closed at 10 a.m. People of all ages climbed to show their support for WWF-Canada and for our planet.

Jim Price has climbed for WWF-Canada every year for the past 19 years. “I look forward to this climb every year,” said Price. “WWF-Canada does great work and the climb is a fun way to support their cause and it gives me a sense of accomplishment. Working to protect our environment is one of the most important things we can do and I climb not just for me or for WWF-Canada, but for the benefit of everyone.”

The Team Climb on Thursday April 16 was also a big success. More than 1,800 individuals entered in teams of four to seven. Direct Energy Business won the prize for top fundraising team by raising $6,060 and 1980 Oars, Fab Four and Canada Life – High Achievers proved their speed by being the fastest male, female and co-ed teams to the top, winning some great prizes.

Those who met fundraising targets also won great prizes, including a weekend stay at the Fairmont Royal York along with a Canon PowerShot SD750 camera for the top individual fundraiser. A $400 gift certificate to Duke’s Cycle and a three-month membership from GoodLife Fitness were awarded to the top fundraising team. New this year, individuals who raised over $150 were entered into a draw to win a trip for two to Cuba.

“The Canada Life CN Tower Stair Climb for WWF-Canada is one of the most unique fundraising events in the world and the support demonstrated by thousands of participants is incredible,” said Jack Robinson, Chief Operating Officer of the CN Tower. “We are proud to have supported this event for 19 years. From the CN Tower you can enjoy spectacular views overlooking our great city and we want to help keep that sky clean and blue for years to come. When you climb or make a pledge, you help WWF-Canada do that, as well as other important conservation achievements to benefit us all.”

As a long-time sponsor of the event, Canada Life applauds the record numbers of Canadians supporting WWF-Canada through the Canada Life CN Tower Climb. Participants in this year’s event included a strong contingent from Canada Life’s London and Toronto offices. “Nearly 60 staff and their guests took part in the Climb and collected pledges. They are demonstrating their concern for the environment and we’re pleased to support their fundraising efforts – and the event itself – through The Key to Giving™, our national program for corporate citizenship,” said Jan Belanger, Assistant Vice-President, Community Affairs for Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life.

About WWF-Canada
WWF-Canada is part of WWF – the global conservation organization. At WWF we advocate and promote lasting solutions to the challenge of balancing a growing human need and environmental sustainability. Fighting climate change is one of WWF-Canada’s main priorities because it is the biggest environmental threat facing our planet. Climbing the CN Tower and supporting WWF-Canada is one way people can help. To learn more about WWF-Canada’s work to fight climate change visit wwf.ca.

About Canada Life:
Canada Life provides insurance and wealth management products and services from coast to coast in Canada, as well as internationally. Through The Key to Giving™ – the national corporate citizenship program of Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life – we contribute to non-profit, charitable and community organizations across the country to address health and wellness, education, social services, arts and culture and civic initiatives. The Key to Giving program also supports the volunteer involvement of staff and financial security advisors in their efforts to meet the needs of the communities in which they live and work.

About CN Tower:
National Icon…Architectural triumph and Engineering Wonder…Award-winning dining and entertainment destination. Spectacular views from three observation levels include world-famous Glass Floor and a new perspective on the view with world’s highest glass-fronted elevator featuring glass floor panels. Fine and casual dining, arcade, ride, shopping. Toronto’s must see.

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For further information:

Ashley Brasfield, Coordinator, Communications, WWF-Canada, Tel: (416) 489-4567 ext 7228, [email protected]; cell: 416-999-8966

Irene Knight, Manager of Public Relations, CN Tower, Tel: (416) 601-4729, [email protected]

Marlene Klassen, Assistant Vice-President, Communication Services, Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life, Tel: (204) 946-7705, [email protected]