November 15, 2013

Message from the Governor General of Canada 
on the Occasion of National Philanthropy Day 

OTTAWA— Philanthropy is not merely an act of giving done by those possessing great wealth. Philanthropy is in every selfless, compassionate gesture made by one person towards another. A hot meal for a sick neighbour. A blanket to warm the shoulders of a homeless man. A kind word said in passing to a weary soul. 

As Canadians, we are all capable of giving from the heart, which is central to the concept of philanthropy. Giving is not limited by age, status or creed. It need not be grandiose or complex. 

There are those among us who give every day for no other reason than it is the right thing to do. With every moment of giving, they are changing lives. You can too. On this National Philanthropy Day, I encourage all Canadians to open their hearts to one another and discover their giving moment. 

David Johnston

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Media information: 

Marie-Ève Létourneau
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-0287
marie-eve.letourneau@gg.ca 

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