Province Thanks Outstanding Volunteers

The province recognized more than 70 outstanding volunteers from across Nova Scotia at the 39th Annual Volunteer Awards ceremony today, April 15.

"Volunteers are critical to making our communities strong and caring," said Marilyn More, Minister responsible for the Voluntary Sector. "All Nova Scotians benefit from their contributions of time, energy, skills and leadership."

Nova Scotia continues to have a high participation rate for volunteering, and one of the highest rates of youth volunteers in the country. More than 450,000 Nova Scotians generously give their time to a variety of worthwhile causes, programs and organizations.

"From youth groups to seniors' organizations, I've been volunteering for more than 50 years in my community," said Sherbrooke resident Vi Fraser, an award recipient. "Volunteering is a way of life for me and I enjoy every minute of it -- helping others and helping my community."

The province is committed to providing training and programs such as the Canadian Red Cross Volunteer Training Centre of Excellence to help volunteers continue their vital contributions.

Last month, the province announced its support for the centre, the first of its kind in Canada, to provide better training for volunteers and expand Nova Scotia's disaster management capabilities.

Non-profit organizations also play a valuable role in the Nova Scotia economy. In February, the province invested in the first community sector council, which will help non-profit organizations address staffing and training needs. The council will bring non-profits together to learn from each other and share human resource and financial expertise, training practices and research.

Ms. More said the awards ceremony is one of the highlights of the year for her.

"It showcases all the work done by outstanding volunteers who go out of their way to make our communities a better place to live," said Ms. More. "It's extremely important for us to take time to say thanks, and recognize the dedicated effort volunteers give to our communities."

For more information on the awards and a list of recipients, visit www.gov.ns.ca/lae/volunteerism.