BankAtlantic Employees Pledge to Donate Up to $105,000 in the BankAtlantic Three House Challenge for Habitat for Humanity of Broward County

BankAtlantic (NYSE:BBX), "Florida’s Most Convenient Bank”, today announced that its employees have presented a "BankAtlantic Three House” donation challenge, pledging up to $105,000 to Habitat for Humanity of Broward County. The challenge was made on behalf of BankAtlantic’s employees by BankAtlantic Bancorp’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Alan B. Levan, at the 25th Anniversary Spirit of Humanity Awards on March 19, 2009.

"The typical cost in building three new Habitat homes is approximately $210,000. BankAtlantic’s associates have pledged a donation which would cover approximately half the cost to build three new Habitat homes. The ‘BankAtlantic Three House Challenge’ is in asking the community, local businesses and corporate leaders to match their pledged donation of up to $105,000. These homes will provide three South Florida families with a decent and affordable place to live in dignity and safety,” said Alan B. Levan, Chairman and CEO of BankAtlantic Bancorp.

Since 1992, BankAtlantic has been a strong supporter of Habitat for Humanity, providing Habitat with free office space and sponsoring nearly 60 homes.

Jason S. Crush, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Broward commented, "Habitat Broward could not have made it this far and been so successful in helping our families without the extraordinary support from BankAtlantic.”

Habitat for Humanity of Broward began serving the residents of Broward County in 1983. To date, more than 300 homes have been built in partnership with families in need and over 99% of Habitat homeowners have successfully maintained their homes.

Alan Levan added: "The most noteworthy moments in life are the times you have done things for others, and each time, no matter how small, sends out a ripple of hope. We are particularly proud of our associates and their efforts to support Habitat for Humanity, and we urge everyone in the community to support the BankAtlantic Three House Challenge.”

About Habitat for Humanity of Broward:

Habitat for Humanity of Broward - the local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International - is a non-profit, non-denominational Christian housing ministry that is dedicated to eradicating substandard housing by building simple, decent, affordable homes in partnership with low and very-low income families in need. Its broader mission is to improve the lives of these families through the power of partnership, education and support, thereby transforming the community. Habitat for Humanity is founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, decent, affordable place to live in dignity and safety.

About BankAtlantic:

BankAtlantic, "Florida’s Most Convenient Bank”, is one of the largest financial institutions headquartered in Florida. Via its broad network of community branches, online banking division - BankAtlantic.com, and conveniently located ATMs, BankAtlantic provides a full line of personal, small business and commercial banking products and services. BankAtlantic is open 7 days a week with extended weekday hours, Free Online Banking & Bill Pay, a 7-Day Customer Service Center, Change Exchange coin counters and free retail and business checking with a free gift.

BankAtlantic Bancorp (NYSE:BBX) is a bank holding company and the parent company of BankAtlantic.

Except for historical information contained herein, the matters discussed in this press release contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act”), that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those contemplated, expressed, or implied by the forward-looking statements contained herein. The Company cautions that the foregoing factors are not exclusive.