PREMIER RECEIVES VOLUNTARY SECTOR REPORT

The Premier's Voluntary Sector Initiative (PVSI) released its 2005 report at an event in Regina today.

"In accepting this report I would like to thank Legislative Secretary responsible for the Voluntary Sector Initiative Doreen Hamilton, the steering committee members, volunteers and the government employees who worked so tirelessly and co-operatively to achieve their goals and set out positive direction for the future," Premier Lorne Calvert said.

In its third year, the Premier's Voluntary Sector Initiative has been working with the Saskatchewan voluntary sector to examine areas of mutual benefit. The result has been a strengthened relationship and a realization of greater efficiencies between the province and the voluntary sector.

"The voluntary sector contributes over $1 billion to our economy yearly and has spin-off benefits that touch nearly every economic and social sector in the province. It is vital to our unbreakable social fabric that work with the voluntary sector continues in this positive direction," Legislative Secretary and PVSI Chair Doreen Hamilton said. "Today's report shows how very proud our administration is to work with the voluntary sector and to face the challenges of strengthening our future relationship together."

The voluntary sector is a vibrant part of this province. Statistics Canada reports that Saskatchewan has the nation's highest rate of volunteerism, with 42 per cent of residents aged 15 and older volunteering on an annual basis. The Premier's Voluntary Sector Initiative will continue to link the priorities of the voluntary sector with the needs of Saskatchewan people.

"The 12,000 volunteer groups and 5,000 incorporated charities across the province contribute to the quality of life of hundreds of thousands of Saskatchewan people. It is profoundly important to the people of this province," PVSI Co-Chair and Director of Community Impact and Investments with the United Way of Regina Tracey Mann said.

To view the document or for more information on the Premier's Voluntary Sector Initiative, go online to www.cyr.gov.sk.ca/voluntary_sector_initiative.html.

The Voluntary Sector Initiative Steering Committee is comprised of representatives from 14 communities and 12 government departments.

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For More Information, Contact:

Richard Fink Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306) 787-5781 Cell: (306) 533-3088