Volunteer To Make A Difference

Canada Day is an opportunity to celebrate our country and all those who make it better. This July, I encourage you to give back to our community and reflect on those who regularly donate their time for its improvement.

If someone in your life has made significant, sustained, and unpaid contributions to their community in Canada or abroad, they may be eligible for recognition through the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers. This prestigious award, presented annually by the Governor General of Canada, recognizes the outstanding volunteer achievements of Canadians embodying the caring country we aspire towards. It is the highest honour for volunteer service that an individual can receive within the Canadian Honours System, replacing the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award in 2016.

Recipients must have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and commitment to volunteerism, generally for a period of 10 or more years. They must have also made a significant impact on the lives of others and contributed to the betterment of their communities.

The award is open to Canadians of all ages, backgrounds, and regions. Nominees are evaluated based on the scope, impact, and duration of their volunteer work.

In 2022, 23 individuals from across Canada were honoured including youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Their volunteer work included supporting vulnerable populations, protecting the environment, and promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to all Canadians and demonstrate the power of volunteerism to create positive change in our communities.

Please keep in mind that you must be directly aware of the volunteer contributions made by the individual you wish to nominate, and you must know them well enough to be able to provide their contact information and details of their volunteer work. If this sounds like someone you know, I encourage you to learn more at www.gg.ca/en/honours/canadian-honours/sovereigns-medal-volunteers.