Executive Council
March 8, 2010
Developing Solutions for the Voluntary and Non-Profit
Sector
Approximately 80 members
of the voluntary and non-profit sector have come
together in Corner Brook today for a Community
Priorities Summit hosted by the Voluntary and Non-Profit
Secretariat. The Honourable Dave Denine, Minister
Responsible for the Volunteer and Non-Profit Sector,
addressed participants at the opening of the summit
which is focused on the discussion and development of
solutions for issues facing the sector.
"This summit is providing
the opportunity to build on the work being done in the
community and ensure the voluntary and non-profit sector
continues to thrive," said Minister Denine. "I was
privileged to meet with members of the sector across the
province to discuss the kind of work they are doing and
their priorities. At this summit we will work together
to find ways to address these priorities and develop
reasonable solutions that will be beneficial to
communities."
Starting in July 2009,
Minister Denine travelled across Newfoundland and
Labrador to speak to volunteers and members of
non-profit organizations. Discussions were held in 17
communities and nearly 300 volunteers and citizens
participated. Members of the sector have identified
three priority areas that will be the focus of
discussions at the summit: training, funding and
recruitment and retention.
The Williams Government
is committed to strengthening the voluntary and
non-profit sector, beginning with the creation of the
Voluntary and Non-Profit Secretariat. Most recently, the
Provincial Government launched the URock Volunteer
Awards, which recognizes young volunteers and
organizations with a connection to young people for
their hard work and dedication to their communities.
"Members of the voluntary
and non-profit sector are leaders in their communities
and are dedicated to the well-being of Newfoundlanders
and Labradorians," said Minister Denine. "This summit
provides an excellent opportunity for government and the
sector to work in partnership towards a strong and
sustainable future. By bringing people together from a
variety of backgrounds, experiences and demographics, we
will have a solid foundation to work from during this
summit and as we move forward."
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Media contact:
Lesley Clarke
Communications Specialist
Volunteer and Non-Profit Secretariat
709-729-6026, 699-2910
lesleyclarke@gov.nl.ca
2010 03 08
10:35 a.m.
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