April 17, 2009

In the midst of the current economic turmoil, or even when life just gets you down, the work, support or simple smile of a volunteer can bring a ray of sunshine to warm the heart and rekindle hope.

That is why I am so pleased to celebrate National Volunteer Week and particularly to pay tribute to the thousands of Canadian volunteers who reject indifference and apathy, who choose instead to do all they can, often behind the scenes, to improve the lives of their fellow citizens.

The gifts that you are offering are extremely precious in this day and age: time and heart. In a wide range of endeavours, you give freely of your talents, energy and expertise. Your actions have a significant impact on the lives you touch and open the door to new possibilities where once the way was blocked. Your generosity and humanity have saved lives and helped to ensure that our communities, provinces and country continue to grow.

This week is all about you and is a time for you to reflect on your kind deeds and celebrate your achievements proudly. Share that spark that drives you so that it might burn in the hearts of generations of volunteers following in your footsteps, admiring all that you have accomplished. In turn, they will become shining examples of dedication and kindness, putting the needs of others first.

Michaëlle Jean

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Media Information
Isabelle Serrurier 
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