December 5, 2015

Message from the Governor General of Canada
on the Occasion of International Volunteer Day

OTTAWA— As we mark International Volunteer Day, it is important that we take the time to thank, to congratulate and to highlight all those who give their time, talent and resources to benefit their communities.

Time and time again, I have seen how much Canadians are driven by a desire to give back to society and make a difference by volunteering. Two years ago, I launched the national My Giving Moment campaign to encourage Canadians to recognize what they have to offer and to find ways to give.

With the festive—and giving—season upon us, I invite you to share photos of volunteers in action on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook using the hashtag #SnapSomeGood. These examples will inspire others to do the same. Another way to honour volunteers is to nominate them for the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award at caring.gg.ca.

I firmly believe that we can build a smarter, more caring world, one act of generosity at a time. I therefore invite you to celebrate volunteerism today and promote selfless giving in these simple and effective ways.

I wish you a wonderful International Volunteer Day!

David Johnston

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Media information:
Josephine Laframboise
Rideau Hall Press Office 
613-990-9324
613-668-1929 (cell)
josephine.laframboise@gg.ca

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