A Message from the Joint Table Members

As we conducted and analyzed research, gathered information, and talked to volunteers and those working in voluntary organizations, a remarkable picture emerged. Canada's volunteers perform hundreds of thousands of acts of kindness and service every day. From the hospital volunteer to the community hall treasurer, to the massive and instant volunteer response in times of crisis and natural disaster, Canadians give freely of themselves, donating their time, energy, creativity and skills.

There is no disputing that volunteerism is a central thread in the social fabric of Canadian life, although we have also come to realize that we cannot afford to be complacent. While Canadians are deeply committed to their communities and to each other, there is growing evidence that urgent action is needed to ensure volunteerism remains a vital force in Canadian society. There are now far fewer volunteers than there were three years ago, and those who remain are taking on an increasingly heavy workload.

In order to respond to these challenges, this report on the Canada Volunteerism Initiative recommends a renewed investment in volunteer activity that will provide volunteers and voluntary organizations with the tools and resources they need to ensure that volunteerism continues to play a strong and vital role in Canadian society.

We are honoured to have worked on this important initiative and thank all those who contributed to its development.

Colleen Kelly (Co-Chair)
Mary Anne Chambers
Anthony Knight
Cynthia Lam
Gabrielle Moule
Tom Myers
Pierre Riley
Tom Ring (Co-Chair)
Jim Dooley
David Fransen
Geoff Gruson
Marilyn Hay
Rick Herringer