Toronto, Ontario, Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Across this country, I have seen the generous nature of Canadians. I have seen individuals making big impacts in their communities. I have seen the change that can occur when compassion governs our actions.

Today’s event, for instance, is being held with the generosity of the SickKids Foundation. I am grateful to them for giving us the chance to celebrate caring.

It is positive change that we celebrate with this presentation of the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award. With us today are people who saw a need in their community and took action. They put the needs of others before their own, and they did so without the desire for recognition. This country is stronger and better because of their selflessness.

Even so, I cannot leave here without sharing their good works with all Canadians.

To all of you, you have not only my congratulations, but also my gratitude for all that you have done.

No doubt you will continue to do good in your communities, improving the lives of those around you.

Each of you has a unique story to tell, and have inspired so many others to find their own giving moments. In fact, every Caring Canadian Award recipient has impressed me with their stories of giving. And so, I hope that you will share with others not only how you give, but also why you give.

This award is not just a symbol; it is also an opportunity. Encourage your friends, neighbours, family and complete strangers to give alongside you.

When you do so, when we all give back, we are creating a smarter, more caring nation, one we can all be proud of.

I have seen many examples of volunteers and givers stepping up and taking the lead in our communities and preparing us for the future. One way you are doing this is in helping to plan the celebrations for our 150th anniversary in 2017.

And so, I would like to leave you with one question: what do you want your Canada to look like in two years’ time? 

This is our chance to shape not only what kind of country we are, but also what kind of country we want to be in the future. It is a chance to say to Canadians and to the world that we are proud of our history and our people; that we collaborate with each other; that we help people in need; that we have a generosity of spirit.

And so, I ask you, and I want to hear from you: what do you want your Canada to look like?

Once again, let me say thank you, on behalf of all Canadians, for your great generosity.