Vaughan, July 12, 2011 – The Hon. Julian Fantino, Associate Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament for Vaughan, today made the following statement to encourage residents of Vaughan to participate in this year’s Prime Minister’s Volunteer Awards (PMVA). This award was created by Prime Minister Stephen Harper in January 2011 to recognize the exceptional contributions of volunteers, local businesses and innovative not-for-profit organizations in improving the well being of families and their communities across the country.

“The best solutions to the challenges facing Canadians are often found locally and Vaughan is no exception,” said Minister Fantino.  “The selfless passion and commitment of our volunteers is helping further strengthen our families and communities.”

The Prime Minister’s Volunteer Awards program consists of 17 awards in total, including two at the national level and 15 at the regional level.  The Awards highlight best practices in community leadership and encourage partnerships across sectors.  The goal of the Awards is to inspire Canadians from all walks of life to find new ways of making a difference in their communities.

“I encourage residents of Vaughan to nominate those setting a positive example for the rest of Canada to be recognized for their outstanding contributions,” added Minister Fantino.

If you know a volunteer, innovative not-for-profit organization or a local business that makes a positive impact in Vaughan, nominations are now open.  The nomination period concludes on September 9th, 2011.



For more information:


To find out more about the Prime Minister’s Volunteer Awards, eligibility criteria and how to submit nominations please visit the Prime Minister’s Volunteer Awards website at www.pm.gc.ca/awards or call 1-877-825-0434.

For more information please contact:

Daniel Salvatore
Constituency Assistant to the Hon. Julian Fantino P.C., M.P.
Associate Minister of National Defence
Phone: 416 562 3597
[email protected]
www.resultsforvaughan.ca