Thérèse Casgrain Volunteer Award - Rating Guide

Nominations must clearly describe the candidate's volunteer efforts by responding to the following rating guide:

Spirit of volunteerism (5 points)

Candidates who exhibit a spirit of volunteerism are those who help others by giving their personal time and skills to the community without remuneration. The successful candidate has selflessly dedicated a substantial portion of his/her life to helping others.

Leadership, creativity, cooperation and hard work (15 points)

The candidate has the ability to motivate people and build consensus. He/she promotes teamwork among fellow Canadians for the betterment of a social cause. The candidate facilitates the success of a common cause, and demonstrates persistence in the face of obstacles.

Raises awareness of a social cause (8 points)

The candidate's volunteer efforts improve the overall quality of life for his/her fellow Canadians. The volunteer work focuses on a social cause (poverty, human rights, persons with disabilities, health, social inclusion, etc.) as opposed to other types of causes (scientific, the arts, environmental, heritage, etc.).

Facilitates participation (7 points)

The candidate contributes to building a more inclusive community through developing or supporting an activity that enables Canadians to participate fully in their communities. An outstanding contribution is one that has had a significant impact on the daily lives of a specific population/group within Canada.

Partnerships (10 points)

The candidate demonstrates that their volunteer work has helped to form effective partnerships with the public, the private sector, voluntary sector organizations, local communities or governments. The candidate demonstrates an ability to successfully involve other organizations and individuals in their cause.

Supporting documentation (5 points)

The nomination package must include three letters of support from individuals who have been affected by the candidate's volunteer work. Newspaper clippings and magazine articles about the candidate will help in supporting the nomination. Please list all awards received by the candidate, and clearly indicate the sponsor of the award (provincial government, federal government, a national organization, etc.).