PROVINCE THANKS 323,000 VOLUNTEERS

In recognition of International Volunteer Day on December 5th, the Province extends thanks to its 323,000 volunteers.

"International Volunteer Day is an opportunity for us to acknowledge the significant contribution made by volunteers in the province," Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Joan Beatty said. "Saskatchewan has a long tradition of volunteerism, with more than 12,000 non-profit organizations and 5,000 incorporated charities all driven by a vibrant volunteer community that has enriched all our lives."

International Volunteer Day was first declared by the United Nations in 1985, and is celebrated today in more than half of all the countries of the world. According to the National Survey of Giving, Volunteering and Participating, 323,000 Saskatchewan residents volunteer annually an average of 154 hours each, the highest participation rate in Canada.

"Giving freely of one's energy and enthusiasm is a truly special, precious gift," Community Resources and Employment Minister Joanne Crofford said. "The efforts of these generous and caring people make a daily difference in the lives of Saskatchewan individuals, children and families all across this great province."

"Saskatchewan's vibrant volunteer sector is important to the province and we thank the thousands of people who contribute their time and talents to enriching our communities across the province," Premier's Voluntary Sector Initiative Chair Doreen Hamilton said.

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.

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For More Information, Contact:

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

Terry Lazarou Community Resources and Employment Regina Phone: (306) 787-8689