On International Volunteer Day, Minister Bibeau thanks Canadian volunteers for making a difference in the world

Statement

December 5, 2016 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, today issued the following statement:

“On International Volunteer Day, I would like to acknowledge the invaluable contributions that Canadian volunteers make in the lives of people in need—in Canada and around the world.

“By sharing their precious knowledge and experience, by giving of their time so generously and by opening their hearts, Canadian volunteers are making a difference in the world.

“In 2015, the Government of Canada’s Volunteer Cooperation Program sent approximately 1,200 Canadian volunteers to 47 countries, and more than 355 highly skilled Canadian youths participated in development internships in 39 countries.

“Indeed, volunteerism improves the lives of people in poor and marginalized communities, but it can also have a positive, sometimes life-changing impact on the lives of volunteers. I know that as I have been a volunteer myself. My experience as a young volunteer in Africa made me who I am today.

“On this International Volunteer Day, I encourage all Canadians, including youth, to experience life abroad and think about how they can contribute to international development.

“Watch International Volunteer Day—it’s about making a difference in the world—and get inspired by Canadians’ stories of volunteering. That is the kind of dedication, innovation, passion and commitment we will need if we are indeed going to build the more prosperous and equitable world we want.”

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Contacts

Bernard Boutin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Development and La Francophonie
343-203-5977
bernard.boutin@international.gc.ca

Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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