OTTAWA, ONTARIO, September 5, 2008-The Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, today announced the appointment of Ms. Anita Hopfauf of Saskatchewan to the National Council of Welfare for a term of two years.
"I am pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Hopfauf to the National Council of Welfare," said Minister Solberg. "Her extensive experience working with people of low income will be a valuable asset to the Council."
Throughout her career, Ms. Hopfauf has gained considerable experience helping disadvantaged individuals through her work in the field of mental health and family welfare. In 1987, she accepted a position at the Riel Local Parent Aide Program where she worked as a Family Support Worker. In 1999, she became the Provincial Program Manager for the Schizophrenia Society of Saskatchewan where she coordinated programs designed to raise awareness and reduce stigma about mental illness.
Since April 2007, Ms. Hopfauf has served as Executive Director for the Schizophrenia Society of Saskatchewan. In this position, she provides direction and leadership to the board, staff and volunteers toward the achievement of the organizations goals.
Ms. Hopfauf has served on a number of committees in the fields of mental health and family welfare, such as the Early Psychosis Initiative Committee, the Mental Health Coalition, the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Advisory Council, the Regina Mental Health Vocational Services Working Group, and the Mental Health Advisory Council.
Ms. Hopfauf holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Regina, as well as a number of certificates, including a certificate in Drugs, Alcohol, and Family Violence Issues.
The National Council of Welfare, which was created in 1969, advises the Minister on the needs and problems of low-income Canadians, and on social and related programs and policies that affect their welfare. To this end, the Council communicates directly with the Minister, informs and influences public opinion through widely disseminated reports, and provides a vehicle through which people concerned with the problems of low-income Canadians can make their views known to the Government.
For more information on the Council, please visit http://www.ncwcnbes.net/.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For more information (media only):
Ms. Lesley Harmer
Director of Communications
Office of Minister Solberg
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
