Young Volunteers to Rock the Red Carpet at URock Volunteer Awards

Young people in this province are contributing to their communities in outstanding ways. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will tell eight deserving recipients this weekend “you rock!” at the 2011 URock Volunteer Awards. The Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, will be joined by the Honourable Dave Denine, Minister Responsible for the Volunteer and Non-Profit Sector, to present the awards at a gala event on Saturday evening.

“Our youth are giving back through their involvement in recreation programs, health care and the environment,” said Premier Dunderdale. “This weekend we will be recognizing young people who have worked hard to enhance the quality of life for people not only in this province, but around the world. We are very proud of this year’s award recipients, who should be viewed as role models for other young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who want to make a difference.”

The recipients of this year’s URock Volunteer Award are the Bishops College Youth Action Committee of St. John’s, Bridgette Abbott of Musgrave Harbour, Juliette Dupre of St. Lawrence, Johnathon Earle of Red Bay, Corey Hudson of Norman’s Cove-Long Cove, Liam Kelly of Paradise, Kara Snow of St. Anthony, and Courtney Young of Port Saunders.

This year’s awards show will open with the Holy Heart of Mary Intercultural Choir and will be followed by music from four local musical acts. Pathological Lovers, From Great Heights, Repartee and The Novaks will be providing entertainment along with the host, comedian and actor, Jonny Harris. Each recipient will be presented with a customized electric guitar.

“It is vital that we give these young people a chance to show others what can be achieved when you take the time to give back to your community,” said Minister Denine. “They are leaders in this province and I hope others will learn from what they have accomplished. Volunteering and giving back to your community provides an immense sense of satisfaction and pride. These experiences will live with them forever.”

Nominations for the URock Volunteer Award may be made in two categories: individuals and youth-led non-profit organization or group. Individual nominees must have made outstanding voluntary contributions, be 30 years of age or under and a current or past resident of Newfoundland and Labrador. Nominated non-profit organizations or groups must be youth-led and have made an outstanding contribution for the betterment of others.

For more information about the URock Volunteer Awards visit the website at www.urockvolunteerawards.ca, e-mail volunteers@gov.nl.ca or call the toll-free number 1-877-895-8891.

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2011 05 13                                                                                 3:00 p.m.