The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos celebrates International Volunteer Day by honoring the recipients of Canada’s Volunteer Awards

December 5, 2017        Ottawa, Ontario           Employment and Social Development Canada

Today, as the world celebrates volunteers globally, Canada celebrated the tremendous contributions of 21 recipients at the Canada’s Volunteer Awards ceremony in Ottawa. This year’s ceremony specially marked the celebration of Canada’s150th anniversary of Confederation through the expansion of the Emerging Leader category to recognize five recipients, and the creation of the CVA Alumni, a group of all past recipients.

The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, gave out the awards recognizing the accomplishments of deserving individuals, businesses and not-for profit organizations that volunteer their time and make a difference in their communities. The recipients have identified an eligible not-for-profit organization which will receive a grant for either $5,000 or $10,000, depending on the award category.

In 2016, Canada ranked sixth in the World Giving Index, which provides insight into the depth and exceptional contribution of Canadians who give back by building healthier and stronger communities.

Volunteers are caring and compassionate and they are an incredible source of inspiration. This is why thanking and encouraging them for their hard work and values is so important. Volunteers are the roots of Canada’s increasingly diverse and inclusive communities.