REPORT ON VOLUNTARY SECTOR INITIATIVE RELEASED AND FORUM ANNOUNCED

The provincial government has released the findings of an independent consultant's report commissioned by the Premier's Voluntary Sector Initiative. The Innova Consulting report will be the focus of discussion at a forum announced today. The forum takes place in Saskatoon June 10th and 11th and will provide the voluntary sector with an opportunity to provide input on the report's findings.

"Saskatchewan has the proud distinction of having the most active voluntary sector in the country," Legislative Secretary and Chair of the Premier's Voluntary Sector Initiative Doreen Hamilton said. "The findings of the Innova Consulting report will help us to understand the various relationships that exist between government and the voluntary sector; strengthening areas of good progress, and increasing our attention to areas in need of support to our vibrant voluntary sector."

According to the National Survey of Giving, Volunteering and Participating, 323,000 Saskatchewan residents volunteer annually an average of 154 hours each, the highest in Canada.

"This report will provide valuable insight into the relationship between government and the voluntary sector," Community Resources and Employment Minister Joanne Crofford said.

"The Innova Consulting report recognizes the voluntary sector as a valued part of the social fabric of this province," Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Joan Beatty said. "By working with the voluntary groups in review of this report, we will seek to build a prosperous future for the voluntary sector in communities across the province."

The Premier's Voluntary Sector Initiative, established in 2002, works to strengthen the relationship between government and Saskatchewan's voluntary sector to assist volunteer organizations in effectively fulfilling their mandates. Culture, Youth and Recreation and Community Resources and Employment are the two lead departments supporting the initiative and Legislative Secretary Doreen Hamilton chairs the Premier's Voluntary Sector Initiative.

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For More Information, Contact:

Janet Peters Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306) 787-4967

Herman Hulshof Community Resources and Employment Regina Phone: (306) 787-0916