Do you know an individual, a group, a business or a not-for-profit organization that is making a difference in your community? Show your appreciation—nominate them for a Prime Minister’s Volunteer Award!

The Prime Minister's Volunteer Awards celebrate exceptional Canadians who make a difference. A total of 17 awards are given at both the regional and national level. Award recipients are recognized at a ceremony, and can name an eligible not-for-profit organization to receive a grant for $5,000 (regional award) or $10,000 (national award).

However, to receive an award, potential recipients must first be nominated by someone. The current call for nominations is open from December 20, 2012, to March 1, 2013.

As individuals or groups, volunteers help their communities in many ways, from organizing activities for children with disabilities to fundraising for community projects. The number of hours they donate is the equivalent of nearly 1.1 million full-time jobs.

Many businesses make a positive impact in their communities. Some organize fundraising events to generate donations for charitable organizations. Some offer their employees paid time away from work to volunteer. In 2010, over half of all employees who volunteered said that they had received employer support to do so. 

Not-for-profit organizations help build stronger communities. In Canada, 161,000 registered charities and not-for-profit organizations work to improve the lives of others. Many have forged new partnerships with other organizations to find solutions to social issues in their community.

Last year, over 750 nominations were received. The first recipients of the Prime Minister's Volunteer Awards were honoured at an awards ceremony held on December 14, 2012 in Ottawa.

With almost half of all Canadians volunteering, there are many more who deserve to be nominated—let’s make sure their valuable work is recognized.

To learn more about the Prime Minister's Volunteer Awards, including details about previous recipients, please visit www.pm.gc.ca/awards or call 1-877-825-0434.

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The audio version of Garry's Jan. 7, 2013 op-ed column can be heard by clicking here