NWT 2009 Volunteer Summit Report Released

2009 Volunteer Summit Report Released

YELLOWKNIFE (September 29, 2009) – The 2009 Volunteer Summit report was released today by the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA) Robert C. McLeod. It will be used to develop the "2009-2012 Government of the Northwest Territories' (GNWT) Volunteer Support Initiative (VSI)."

The report outlines the goals, objectives, and key findings of the GNWT-sponsored Volunteer Summit held in Yellowknife last March. The summit provided an opportunity for volunteers to express their needs, concerns, and ideas surrounding the voluntary sector.

"Volunteers and the voluntary sector play an important role in developing and maintaining sustainable, safe, and vibrant communities," said Minister McLeod. "Through the Volunteer Support Initiative, MACA is committed to supporting volunteers as they continue to play a vital role in the wellbeing and sense of community in the North."

The VSI will focus on initiatives that improve training opportunities for volunteers, with a particular emphasis on community capacity building; promoting the social and health benefits of volunteering to all residents; engaging NWT youth as new volunteers; and supporting the development of resources to complement these activities.

Updating and refocusing the Volunteer Support Initiative is a key part of the Government of the Northwest Territories' Building our Future initiative, and is an important step to improve support for the voluntary sector.

Click here for more information on volunteerism,
http://www.maca.gov.nt.ca/sport/volunteerism/index.html
or click here to read the full report.
http://www.maca.gov.nt.ca/resources/2009_Volunteer_Summit_Report.pdf

For more information, contact:

Rebecca Alty
Communications/Website Advisor
Municipal and Community Affairs
Tel: (867) 920-3092