Do you know an individual, a group, a business or a not-for-profit organization that is making a difference in your community?
MP John Duncan is reminding community members that nominations for the Prime Minister’s Volunteer Awards are being accepted and the deadline for receipt of nominations has been extended to April 15.
The Prime Minister's Volunteer Awards celebrate exceptional Canadians who make a difference. A total of 17 awards are given at the regional and national level. Award recipients are recognized at a ceremony, and can name an eligible not-for-profit organization to receive a grant for $5,000 (regional award) or $10,000 (national award).
“The Prime Minister’s Volunteer Awards recognize the contributions of volunteers, businesses and not-for-profit organizations that help make communities stronger,” said Duncan. “There are many deserving award recipients in this region, but someone must
nominate them.”
A nominator may be any person or organization with direct knowledge of the nominee’s contribution.
As individuals or groups, volunteers help their communities in many ways, from organizing activities for children with disabilities to fundraising for community projects. The number of hours they donate is the equivalent of nearly 1.1 million full-time jobs.
Many businesses make a positive impact in their communities. Some organize fundraising events to generate donations for charitable organizations. Some offer their employees paid
time away from work to volunteer.
In 2010, over half of all employees who volunteered said they had received employer support to do so.
Not-for-profit organizations help build stronger communities. In Canada, 161,000 registered charities and not-for-profit organizations work to improve the lives of others. Many have
forged new partnerships with other organizations to find solutions to social issues in their community.
Last year, over 750 nominations were received. The first recipients of the Prime Minister's Volunteer Awards were honoured at an awards ceremony Dec. 14, 2012 in Ottawa.
Visit www.pm.gc.ca/awards, www.facebook.com/PrixduPMAwards, or call 1-877-825-0434 for more information about the PMVA, including past award recipients and the current call for nominations.
— MP John Duncan