SPIRIT AWARD RECIPIENTS ANNOUNCED IN LLOYDMINSTER

Lloydminster MLA Tim McMillan, on behalf of Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer, today announced the recipients of the annual Spirit Award For Community-Based Organizations (CBOs). The Spirit Award honours CBOs that deliver programs and services on behalf of the Ministry of Social Services or its agency, the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation.

"The Spirit Award celebrates the contributions of human-services CBOs to the well-being of Saskatchewan people," McMillan said. "The CBOs that deliver these services are all non-profit organizations operated by volunteer boards. And they share a common goal-to improve the lives of people and families in their communities."

CBOs that received funding within the past two years from the Ministry or the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation were eligible for the award. Funded CBOs include those that provide services and supports for people with disabilities, those that support children, youth, and families facing challenges or crisis, as well as housing authorities that deliver housing programs and services for lower-income people and families.

This year's recipients are:

• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lloydminster (Children, Youth and Families category)
• Porcupine Opportunities Program, Porcupine Plain (People with Disabilities category)
• River Bank Development Corporation, Prince Albert (Housing category)

McMillan presented Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lloydminster with their award, including a cheque for $1,000. Presentations to the other two recipients will be made in a few weeks.

"As one of the many CBOs across Saskatchewan working to make a difference in the lives of children, youth and families, we're thrilled by this recognition," Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lloydminster Chairperson Kathy Paniak said. "Through the many strong partnerships we have developed with families in Lloydminster, we will continue to offer mentoring and other quality programs to the children of our community."

CBOs from across Saskatchewan were nominated for the 2008-09 Spirit Awards. Recipients were selected based on their demonstrated ability to make a difference in people's lives through exceptional service and program delivery. This year's selection committee was comprised of Eileen Gelowitz of Saskatoon, Richard L'Hoir of Biggar, Ian Morrison of Moose Jaw, Louise Trudelle of Regina, and M. L. Whittles of Kenaston.

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For more information, contact:

Brian Miller
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0531
Email: brian.miller3@gov.sk.ca