Fry Announces Funding for the International Association for Volunteer Effort's 1998 Conference
EDMONTON, March 19, 1998 -- The Honourable Hedy Fry, Secretary of State (Multiculturalism) (Status of Women), today announced funding of $100,000 for the International Association for Volunteer Effort (IAVE) 98 World Volunteer Conference Multiculturalism Scholarship Program. The project is designed to facilitate the full and active participation of ethnic, racial, religious and cultural communities in Canada by helping them get involved in the voluntary sector.The Project will award full conference scholarships to 72 deserving Canadians from ethno-cultural minorities who otherwise could not afford to participate in this "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity.
The chosen delegates will participate in the 15th Biennial Conference of the International Association for Volunteer Effort, to be held in Edmonton this summer. This conference raises awareness of the importance of volunteering, draws leaders from the public and private sectors into the volunteer community and offers a unique opportunity for volunteer leaders from the region to build their skills and learn from colleagues worldwide.
The Wild Rose Foundation's successful bid to host this conference has made it possible for Canadians to benefit from the impact of such a gathering. Conference sessions will be dedicated to improving and enhancing volunteer initiatives and programs. It is expected the conference, which is the only regular international convening of volunteer leaders, will bring together 2,500 individuals, including 1,500 Canadians, involved in voluntary efforts from 100 countries.
The conference will take place from August 23 to 27 at the University of Alberta Campus.
Funding for this project was provided for in the February 1997 federal budget and is therefore built into the existing fiscal framework. This initiative is an example of how this government is prioritizing its spending so that it can better serve Canadians by making efficient use of their tax dollars.
Information:
Hai Nguyen
Canadian Heritage
(403) 495-4236
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