Tom Hedderson, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister Responsible for the Volunteer and Non-profit Sector, today recognized the thousands of individuals throughout Newfoundland and Labrador who contribute their valuable, unpaid time to their communities and community organizations in a concerted effort to make our province stronger.

"The United Nations formally recognizes December 5 each year as International Volunteer Day, a day on which volunteers around the world are recognized and celebrated for their contributions and dedication," said Minister Hedderson. "In my new role as Minister Responsible for the Volunteer and Non-profit Sector, I am honoured to pay tribute to the countless men and women in our province who selflessly devote their time to volunteer efforts."

Currently, in Newfoundland and Labrador, over 23,000 people are employed by volunteer and non-profit organizations, and there are approximately 187,000 volunteers.

Minister Hedderson also said that Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are known for their compassion and their strong desire to assist others whenever and wherever they can. "It is because of these traits that so many residents of our province are involved in the voluntary and non-profit sector. The benefits this sector contributes to our communities are infinite," continued the minister. "Think about the valuable role which volunteer fire departments, local sports associations, and town councils, to name a few, play in our communities. The voluntary and non-profit sector is about our quality of life."

The Williams Government committed to the establishment of a ministry dedicated to the volunteer and non-profit sector, with a mandate to assist voluntary and non-profit organizations in a variety of ways. This sector encompasses a broad spectrum of organizations, including recreation, arts, religious, municipal, and community and economic development. There are approximately 5,000 organizations province-wide that make up this sector.

The minister also said that he is currently in the process of having informal discussions with voluntary and non-profit organizations across the province, as he sets up this new ministry. "I want to know what issues need to be addressed and any concerns which exist within this sector. I am happy to be able to give the voluntary and non-profit sector a direct voice around the cabinet table, and to see first hand the important and integral role these organizations play in our communities."

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Media contact:
Melony O�Neill
Communications
Executive Council
709-729-0557; 689-0928
moneill@gov.nl.ca