American Heart Association Recognizes Union Bank of California for Passionate Commitment to Fighting Heart Disease and Stroke

Corporate Social Responsibility Press Release

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9.06.2008 - 03:32pm ET

American Heart Association Recognizes Union Bank of California for Passionate Commitment to Fighting Heart Disease and Stroke

(CSRwire) LOS ANGELES, CA. - September 6, 2008 - The American Heart Association's Los Angeles division has announced that Union Bank of California is the recipient of the Excellence in Corporate Partnership award. The award is given each year to a leader in support of, and participation in, the association’s mission of building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

"Union Bank of California has been a steadfast partner in our fight against the nation's leading killer, heart disease," said Roman J. Bowser, Executive Vice President of the Western States Affiliate of the American Heart Association. "They have truly taken our cause to heart, serving as a shining example to other companies in Los Angeles when it comes to employee wellness and morale, and when it comes to supporting our efforts."

The American Heart Association's Start! movement calls on Americans and their employers to create a culture of physical activity and health through walking. Each year, the Start! Heart Walks, which are held in communities throughout the nation, culminate Start! wellness efforts by bringing people together to be active and raise funds to support American Heart Association research and programs. Another critical element of the Start! program is the Fit-Friendly Company designation, which recognizes employers, at the Gold or Platinum level, for their efforts to create a healthier workplace by taking such actions as providing opportunities for exercise and healthier eating options.

Union Bank of California has aggressively participated in every aspect of the Start! program. Last year, they were recognized with Fit-Friendly Gold status for their efforts to get their employees active and well informed about their health, including regular employee wellness expos.

"It is an honor to be recognized with this award," said George Ramirez, market president for retail banking at Union Bank of California. "A big part of our corporate mission is to invest in our customers, in the communities we serve, and in our employees. The Start! program has been an incredible way for us to get our employees living healthier lifestyles."

Additionally, Union Bank of California was the No. 1 fundraising team at last year's Start! Los Angeles County Heart Walk, raising over $130,000 to fund American Heart Association research programs. They are participating again this year and are on track to be the leading team once again.

"The Heart Walk is a crowning event for our employees' wellness efforts," Ramirez said. "It has been a great way to get them more invested in their own wellness – and in helping to save the lives of others. We've challenged them and they have responded incredibly – and I know we're all shooting to be the number one team again this year."

About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is the largest voluntary health organization fighting heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases in local communities throughout America. These diseases devastate millions of people of all ages and claim nearly 950,000 lives a year.

About Union Bank of California
Based in San Francisco, UnionBanCal Corporation (NYSE:UB) is a bank holding company with assets of $60.6 billion at June 30, 2008. Its primary subsidiary, Union Bank of California, N.A., had 337 banking offices in California, Oregon and Washington, and 2 international offices at June 30, 2008. The company's Web site is located at www.unionbank.com.