GRIFFITH – BMO Harris Bank has been recognized with a Community Spirit award from Lake Area United Way for its financial in the 2011-12 annual community campaign.

“BMO Harris Bank and its team members are ardent United Way supporters,” said LAUW President Lou Martinez. “Thanks for all you do for the communities you serve through your gifts to United Way.”

In presenting the award, Martinez said BMO Harris Bank’s corporate and employee gifts to LAUW increased by 38 percent in 2011. He said several bank executives are leadership givers contributing $1,000 or more to Lake Area United Way’s annual campaign.

The award was presented during a special year-end team celebration dubbed, “BMOlympics.” Hundreds of bank employees, divided into competing branches, marched in unison and in team costumes during the contest’s opening ceremony and cheered on as Hubert the Lion, BMO Harris Bank’s mascot, made his way through the crowd carrying a torch and lit the Olympic cauldron to start the games.