CIBC World Markets Children’s Miracle Foundation announced today that $19,695,280 was raised around the world for children’s charities during their annual Children’s Miracle Day fundraiser on December 3.

In Canada, $4 million was raised, making Miracle Day the largest single-day corporate fundraiser in the country to benefit children’s charities. In the United States, $15 million was raised.

On Miracle Day, the first Wednesday in December, CIBC World Markets and CIBC Wood Gundy sales and trading staff donate their fees and commissions to benefit children’s charities. In Canada, money raised from Miracle Day benefits 350 children’s charities across the country that are dedicated to improving the health, well-being and education of children.

“Miracle Day is about investing in children,” said Susan Storey, managing director CIBC World Markets and Chair of CIBC Children’s Miracle Foundation, in a news release. “The commitment and generosity of our sales and trading staff and our clients on Miracle Day creates miracles for children on a daily basis.”

In conjunction with the announcement of their fundraising results, CIBC World Markets Children’s Miracle Foundation presented a Miracle Maker award to 12-year-old Ryan Hreljac of Kemptville, Ont. Miracle Maker Awards are presented to individuals who have made an extraordinary investment of their time and energy to help children.

At only six years of age, Ryan was inspired to raise money to build a well in Africa for people who did not have clean water. His fundraising efforts started simply by saving money from chores he did around the house and grew from there. In the six years since, Ryan’s Well Foundation has raised an incredible $800,000 to build wells and related projects in six African countries.

“An inspiring young person like Ryan reminds us of the importance of supporting our children and providing them with opportunities to grow and follow their dreams,” said Storey.