Message from Ted Mathas - Chairman, President and CEO

2009 marks the 30th anniversary of the New York Life Foundation, our Company’s charitable lifeline to the communities in which we do business.

The mission of the New York Life Foundation is a natural outgrowth of one of the defining characteristics of our Company. Since the very beginning, New York Life’s first and foremost purpose has always been to help people achieve a better, more secure future for themselves and their families.

Through the insurance and investment products we offer, we have helped families, businesses and communities weave a financial safety net that prepares them for life’s unexpected downturns. And, just as gratifying, through the work of the New York Life Foundation, we are supporting and strengthening organizations that serve the two of the most potentially vulnerable segments of society – the young and the elderly.

While the New York Life Foundation has, since its inception, awarded more than $100 million to nonprofit agencies and community organizations, I am proud to say that our help comes not just from the checkbook, but also comes from the hearts and hands of our agents, employees and retirees. On any given day in communities large and small, you will see New York Life people mentoring children, collecting food and clothing for homeless families or helping to beautify parks and playgrounds in neglected neighborhoods.

I thank you for your interest in the New York Life Foundation and our community involvement programs. Should your interest lead to participation, so much the better. There is so much more we can – and will – accomplish together.

Ted Mathas
Chairman, President and CEO
New York Life