As a major international company - with diverse operations scattered across five continents - we know that we can have the greatest impact at the local community level. By supporting charities, civic causes and non-profit organizations, we link to our customers, employees, shareholders and communities.

Our goal is to be a leader in corporate social responsibility and, as part of this objective, to be seen as a positive influence in the communities we serve.

Scotiabank has maintained this philosophy for more than 170 years and, today, the Bank's community commitments total $30 million, with $17 million dedicated to individual charitable donations and an additional $13 million in sponsorships. In Canada alone, we invested $25 million to community giving programs and, as a result, we are recognized as one of the country's largest philanthropic supporters. We give about 15 per cent of our total charitable donations internationally.

Our community giving consists of three main elements: corporate support through donations and sponsorships, community involvement programs and employee fund-raising initiatives. While the range of causes we support is diverse - based on individual community needs - we emphasize activities, projects and organizations that we believe will produce tangible, positive results in local communities, particularly in the areas of education, health, social services, arts and culture.

In addition to the financial support we provide as an organization, our employees play a crucial role by donating their time, energy, skills and funds. Throughout the year, thousands of employees take the initiative and volunteer for causes that matter to them, their friends, neighbours and customers, raising millions of dollars through their enthusiasm, spirit and teamwork.

To recognize the incredible dedication and achievements of our staff, the Bank has two programs - the Scotia Employee Volunteer Program (SEVP) and the Team Scotia Community Program (TSCP). (See pages 22 to 25 for more information on these two highly popular programs.)

In the following pages, we've highlighted some of the great causes and community events supported by the Bank and its employees during 2003. Since we are always interested in discovering new opportunities to assist important community programs, on page 60, you will find our guidelines for applying for a donation or sponsorship on behalf of a particular organization.