The call for nominations for Canada’s Volunteer Awards is now open and will run until February 3, 2017.

Canada’s Volunteer Awards recipients are nominated by Canadians, for Canadians. This is the chance for all Canadians, and particularly in [Region/Riding], to nominate a volunteer, a not-for-profit organization that helps to find innovative solutions to social challenges, or a business that demonstrates social responsibility in your community.

The Government of Canada is proud to acknowledge young volunteers. In honour of the 150^th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, the Emerging Leader category has been expanded from one national to five regional awards in order to recognize young volunteers for their contributions to their communities.

This year, 21 awards will be presented, and award recipients will have the opportunity to identify a not-for-profit organization of their choice to receive a $5,000 or $10,000 grant.

Awards will be presented in the following categories:

• One (1) national award – Thérèse Casgrain Lifelong Achievement Award.
• Five (5) regional awards – Emerging Leader, for young volunteers aged 18 to 30.
• Five (5) regional awards – Community Leader, for individuals or groups of volunteers.
• Five (5) regional awards – Business Leader, to recognize businesses that demonstrate social responsibility.
• Five (5) regional awards – Social Innovator, to recognize the contributions of not-for-profit organizations.

Nominate a volunteer, a not-for-profit organization or a business today! For more information and to submit a nomination, visit Canada.ca/volunteer-awards.