Statement by the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos in recognition of Canada’s volunteers during National Volunteer Week 2017

April 23, 2017              Gatineau, Quebec                    Employment and Social Development Canada

“Volunteerism in Canada is essential to the fabric of our country and our communities. Volunteer work is important not only to individuals but also to the well-being of our society as a whole. In celebration of National Volunteer Week 2017, from April 23 to 29, I would like to invite all Canadians to join me in recognizing the near 13 million volunteers across Canada that give countless hours of their time and help make a difference in our communities each day.

As Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, I think volunteering is among the greatest acts a Canadian can contribute. Volunteering helps provide a great sense of purpose and satisfaction to Canadians and is also a way to connect with others. Volunteers strengthen our communities and offer support to citizens through acts of service. Although they do not seek recognition, they surely deserve it.

Volunteers come from all walks of life and they reflect the diversity, inclusivity and creativity of Canada. As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, I encourage all Canadians to recognize the important and positive impacts that volunteering has in our communities from coast to coast to coast.

Canada’s Volunteer Awards are a key way for Canadians to recognize outstanding volunteers. This fall, 21 awards will be presented to exceptional individual volunteers, not-for-profit organizations and businesses. Award recipients will have the chance to identify a not-for-profit organization of their choice to receive a $5,000 or $10,000 grant.

During National Volunteer Week, I invite all Canadians to take the time to thank a volunteer who is making a difference by using the hashtags #MakeADifference and #NVW2017.”

Associated Links

Canada’s Volunteer Awards Program
Volunteer Canada

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For media enquiries, please contact:

Émilie Gauduchon-Campbell
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Families, Children and Social Development
819-654-5546

Media Relations Office
Employment and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
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