Make Some Noise during National Volunteer Week

Sunday, April 21 marks the launch of National Volunteer Week in Canada. The Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister Responsible for the Office of Public Engagement, will be participating in a number of events throughout the week to celebrate and recognize the important contributions of volunteers in Newfoundland and Labrador.

“Each day, throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, volunteers play an important role in the cultural, social and economic development of our communities,” said Minister Hutchings. “From municipal leaders, volunteer firefighters, and those who work with our youth and seniors, these outstanding individuals provide many vital services. While sometimes they feel their work goes unnoticed, their contributions impact the lives of everyone. I call upon all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to join me in thanking all our volunteers and encourage others to become actively involved in their communities.”

During National Volunteer Week (April 21-27), Minister Hutchings will attend the following events:

• Sunday, April 21 – St. John’s Volunteer Recognition Night Reception, CLB Armoury, Harvey Road, St. John’s, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Monday, April 22 – Province-wide cheer for volunteers, Witless Bay Volunteer Fire Hall, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Tuesday, April 23 – Heart and Stroke Volunteer Celebration Event, Holiday Inn, St. John’s, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Friday, April 26 – Town of Petty Harbour/Maddox Cove Volunteer Appreciation Night, Petty Harbour/Maddox Cove Community Centre, 7:30 p.m.

In addition, Steve Kent, Parliamentary Secretary, will attend the following events on behalf of Minister Hutchings:

• Thursday, April 25 – Government House Reception, Government House, St. John’s, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Friday, April 26 – Ronald McDonald House Baked Goods Program, 150 Clinch Crescent, St. John’s, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
• Friday, April 26 – Cabot Loop Volunteer Appreciation Night, The Factory, Port Union, at 7:00 p.m.
• Sunday, April 28 – Volunteer Appreciation Event, Gander Hotel, Gander, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

This year’s theme, Let’s Make Some Noise, reflects the objective of Volunteer Week – to bring attention to and awareness of the generous contribution made every day by volunteers in this province, and to provide an opportunity for these individuals to shine. It is estimated that there are approximately 197,000 volunteers in Newfoundland and Labrador, who contribute a total of 35 million hours of valuable unpaid time to volunteer and non-profit organizations and communities. Furthermore, there are almost 23,000 people employed by volunteer and non-profit organizations in a concerted effort to make our province stronger.

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Media contact:
Heather Maclean
Communications Director
Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development
709-729-4570, 697-4137
heathermaclean@gov.nl.ca

2013 04 19             10:35 a.m.