This release was issued under a previous government.
April 10-16 is National Volunteer Week. Across Alberta, events and activities are taking place to honour those who are at the heart of the social, cultural and recreational programs that make communities great.
“The roots of volunteerism run deep in Alberta and from those roots strong families and communities have blossomed. National Volunteer Week is a chance to reflect on how those caring and committed volunteers have made a difference in your life and how you can make a difference in the lives of others.”
With this year’s theme of “volunteers are the roots of strong communities”, more than 90 communities will be hosting activities to recognize local volunteers, supported by $65,000 in funding from the Government of Alberta and administered by Volunteer Alberta.
“Volunteers who contribute to their community have a sense of purpose and belonging, and they are essential to nonprofit organizations and communities across our province. National Volunteer Week is our opportunity as nonprofit organizations to celebrate and thank Alberta’s amazing volunteers.”
Approximately 61 per cent of Albertans representing all age groups volunteered with organizations in their community in 2014-15, contributing an average of 160 hours each year to support local initiatives.
The Government of Alberta works to support the efforts of volunteers and volunteer organizations through a range of programs, including the Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards, which recognize Alberta’s exceptional volunteers.