Lieutenant Governor's Award Recognizes Generations Growing Together

Efforts to raise public awareness about bringing generations together and promoting caring and understanding will be recognized by a new award program

The Lieutenant Governor's Intergenerational Award: Generations Growing Together, recognizes volunteers who have made outstanding contributions to seniors and youth. It is designed to foster interaction and bonding between age groups by celebrating intergenerational programs in communities across the province.

"In my role as lieutenant governor of Nova Scotia, I am committed to recognizing the values of civic responsibility and the deep sense of community pride that were instilled in me by my parents at a very early age," Lt.-Gov. Mayann Francis said today, Aug. 3. "It is with great enthusiasm that I commission this award to officially recognize the work of Nova Scotians who help to create caring, supportive communities by bringing together seniors and young people."

A committee chaired by Valerie White, CEO Seniors' Secretariat, developed the nomination and award criteria and will review submissions and make recommendations.

"The awards are a way to recognize emerging opportunities by highlighting the Strategy for Positive Aging in Nova Scotia and the importance of intergenerational bonding," said Minister of Seniors Carolyn Bolivar-Getson. "The Seniors' Secretariat is very pleased to work in partnership with the Rotary Club of Halifax and the Youth Secretariat to support this award."

Karen Casey, Minister responsible for the Youth Secretariat, said the award is an exciting opportunity.

"In addition to raising awareness of the importance of relationships between seniors and youth, these awards will highlight that many Nova Scotia youth are valuable, contributing members of their communities," said Ms. Casey.

Three outstanding projects will be recognized. Winners will receive a framed certificate, letter of recognition from the lieutenant governor, cash donation to the program and, in the case of individual awards, a donation to a not-for-profit organization of the recipient's choice.

The awards will be:

• $500 Outstanding Volunteer Group Award sponsored by the Rotary Club of Halifax to a not-for-profit organization, charity, or community group.

• $250 Outstanding Volunteer Service Award: Younger Generation sponsored by the Youth Secretariat to a child, youth, or young adult.

• $250 Outstanding Volunteer Service Award: Older Generation sponsored by the Seniors' Secretariat to an older individual.

"It is my hope that by increasing public awareness of the many societal benefits that come from bringing generations together, we can expand and grow these opportunities and leave a legacy that will benefit Nova Scotians of all ages in the future," said Lt.-Gov. Francis.

Individuals, community groups and volunteer agencies are encouraged to recognize volunteers by nominating candidates. Nominations must be made by Sept. 7. Copies of the nomination form and posters are available at www.gov.ns.ca/scs or by phoning the Seniors' Secretariat toll free at 1-800-670-0065.