LANGLEY, BRITISH COLUMBIA, December 8, 2006 -- The Friends of Fort Langley National Historic Site Cooperating Association has been presented a special volunteer award recognizing over 20 years of support and dedication in the preservation of Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada. Today, on behalf of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Mr. Mark Warawa, MP for Langley, congratulated the Friends of the Fort on receiving the award, developed to mark the 25th anniversary of Parks Canada's Cooperating Association Program.
"I would like to publicly thank members of the Friends of the Fort for their contributions and commitment. This is the type of stakeholder dedication and passion which helps Parks Canada in delivering its mandate of protection, education and providing memorable visitor experiences," said Minister Ambrose. "The support of this dedicated group of volunteers is invaluable in helping ensure Canada's natural and cultural heritage is available for this and future generations."
Launched in 1981, the Cooperating Association Program started with six associations who signed agreements with Parks Canada. There are now 55 associations affiliated with 73 national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas across Canada. Over the past 25 years, cooperating associations like the Friends of the Fort have been involved in various programs and special events, enabling the associations to employ staff and engage well-trained, highly motivated volunteers to assist the parks and sites to carry out their mandated goals.
"Volunteers are a major strength in our community and we are all very proud of the Friends of the Fort's accomplishments," said Mr. Warawa. "Their efforts, along with the other cooperating associations who work in partnership with Parks Canada, are wonderful examples of community-based stewardship of Canada's nationally significant cultural heritage."
The Friends of Fort Langley National Historic Site was established in 1985 "To stimulate appreciation and enjoyment of Fort Langley National Historic Site". Over the years, the Friends have developed special events such as The Candlelight Tour, provided funds and resources to build one of the bastions and the bateau, and developed publications such as Bannock and Beavertails. Today, the Friends continue to operate a sales outlet at the visitor orientation centre, provide volunteers for a variety of activities such as the Village Greeters program and Douglas Day activities, and run special events such as The Christmas Craft Fair and An Eerie Night of Fright.
In recognition of their invaluable support, Parks Canada is presenting each of the 55 cooperating associations with a commemorative sculpture entitled "The Volunteer Flame". Created by Anthony Testa, the sculpture was designed to symbolize the emotion, energy and fire within each volunteer.
Information:
John Aldag
Manager, National Historic Sites Coastal BC
Parks Canada
604-513-4780
Ann Corner
Liaison Officer
Coastal BC
Parks Canada
604-513-4784
