Thérèse Casgrain Volunteer Award
In 2001, the International Year of Volunteers, the Government of Canada launched the Thérèse Casgrain Volunteer Award. This award commemorates the work of Thérèse Casgrain and honours those who have demonstrated a lifelong commitment to volunteering.
Thérèse Casgrain was an eminent Canadian whose actions continue to serve as an example to all. She was the force behind various social reforms promoting justice and equality. Thérèse Casgrain was appointed to the Senate in 1970 and became a Companion of the Order of Canada in 1974. Throughout her life she chose to defend the cause of disadvantaged members of society, to denounce social injustice and to lend a voice to those who had none. Thérèse Casgrain was an inspiring Canadian in every sense of the word.
The award is presented annually to two Canadians, one man and one woman. It recognizes volunteers from communities across Canada. Award recipients are individuals whose social commitment and persistent efforts have contributed significantly to the advancement of a social cause and the well-being of their fellow Canadians.
The award consists of a bronze medallion bearing the likeness of Thérèse Casgrain; a lapel pin; a certificate of recognition; and, $5,000 to be awarded to a registered Canadian charity designated by the recipient.
Choosing the Candidates
The National Selection Committee consists of:
- a chairperson;
- former award recipients;
- voluntary sector representatives from across Canada;
- members of the Thérèse F. Casgrain Foundation; and
- representatives of the Government of Canada.
The Committee seeks candidates who meet the following criteria:
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they have created effective partnerships with the public, the private, the voluntary sector, local communities and/or governments.
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they are Canadian citizens;
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there is evidence that the spirit of volunteerism has played a significant role throughout their lifetime;
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their volunteer efforts have enabled fellow Canadians to participate in the workplace and/or their communities;
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they have demonstrated leadership, creativity, cooperation and hard work in advancing a social cause; and
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they have created effective partnerships with the public, the voluntary sector, local communities and/or governments.
Nomination Procedures
A candidate for the Thérèse Casgrain Volunteer Award may be sponsored by:
- a) an organization; or
- b) three individuals — a sponsor and two co-sponsors, none of whom are related to the candidate.
The application must include the following information:
- name, address and telephone number of the candidate;
- a Personal Release and Consent Form, signed by the candidate;
- names, addresses and telephone numbers of the sponsor and co-sponsors; and
- a detailed description of the candidate’s accomplishments under each of the criteria, including relevant documents (e.g., publications, letters of support, awards, press clippings).
Candidates will not be considered posthumously.
This information must be submitted by February 1 to:
Thérèse Casgrain Volunteer Award Secretariat
Human Resources and Social Development Canada
Place Vanier, Tower A, 2nd Floor
333 North River Road
Ottawa ON K1A 0L1
