You are never too young or too old to learn something new. That is the message from the Newfoundland and Labrador Women�s Institutes during Women�s Institute Week, February 18-24, 2007. The theme of the week is Live to Learn-Learn to Live.

"The Women�s Institutes in Newfoundland and Labrador are a strong network of women who encourage learning and growth for all ages," said the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women and Minister of Education. "Work in areas such as environmental improvement and providing scholarships to a number of students each year have made Women�s Institutes an important part of our communities."

The Newfoundland and Labrador Women�s Institutes is an informal, educational organization for women to work together to expand their skills, broaden their interests, plan meetings, workshops and conferences and strengthen the quality of life for themselves, their families and their communities.

The Women's Institutes were first founded in Canada in 1897 and have grown to become part of a worldwide movement with more than nine million members. In this province, women came together in the wake of the 1929 tidal wave to provide aid to survivors and their families, later forming a permanent organization to unite rural and urban women in 1935.

"The Newfoundland and Labrador Women= s Institutes are delighted to celebrate Women�s Institute Week," said Shirley Fraize, Provincial President of the Women�s Institute. "The Women�s Institutes are proud to provide opportunities for women of all ages to participate in a variety of activities that enrich their lives and create friendships."

Various activities are planned throughout Newfoundland and Labrador this week. Members will be participating at a luncheon in St. John�s, as well as hosting a number of displays and open houses throughout the province. For more information on events taking place in your community, contact the provincial office at (709) 753-8780 or via e-mail at nlwi@nfld.com.

The official opening ceremony will take place on Tuesday, February 20, at Government House. The Honourable Diane Whalen, Minister of Government Services, will speak on behalf of Minister Burke at this event.

"I encourage everyone to celebrate Women�s Institute Week by participating in the events taking place in your community" said Minister Burke.

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Photo #1: Front Row: The Honourable Joan Burke, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women, Minister of Education.
Back Row (left to right): NLWI Provincial President Shirley Fraize; NLWI Triennial Convention 2007 Co-Chair Maxine Dawe; NLWI 2nd Vice-President Jane Laite.

Media contact:
Michelle Hynes
Communications and Policy Research Analyst
Women�s Policy Office
709-729-6225 or 693-2125
michellehynes@gov.nl.ca

2007 02 19                                                         11:25 a.m.