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December 5, 2011
Message from His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, on the Occasion of International Volunteer Day
OTTAWA—Across Canada and around the world, volunteers are joining in common cause to build smarter, more caring communities.
Each year, International Volunteer Day provides us with an opportunity to thank those who give of themselves. Volunteering occurs in many different forms, but the desire to help others is universal, transcending borders, cultures and languages. It is among our most human impulses, and an essential element of successful societies everywhere.
Here in Canada, we are fortunate to have one of the world’s strongest and most committed volunteer sectors. Our remarkable volunteers and the organizations they work with realize that the more caring society of which we dream is within our grasp. At home and abroad—where volunteers often work in difficult conditions to help those in need—Canadians are making a real difference in the lives of others.
On this International Volunteer Day, which marks 10 years since the United Nations declared the International Year of Volunteers, I invite all Canadians to express their appreciation to those who are so generous with their time, talent and energy. Together, let us celebrate the importance of volunteerism and the contributions of volunteers.
David Johnston
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International Volunteer Day is celebrated every year on December 5th.
Media information:
Christelle Legault
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-7280
christelle.legault@gg.ca
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