Province Seeks Nominations for Lieutenant Governor's Community Spirit Award

Does your community have spirit? The province is encouraging communities to show it by submitting nominations for the Lieutenant Governor's Community Spirit Award.

The award celebrates the power, strength and diversity of vibrant communities across Nova Scotia. It profiles their achievements and increases their visibility through a formal recognition program.

"Communities grow by working together and this in turn builds a better province for all of our citizens," said Lt.-Gov. J.J. Grant. "The strength of our communities has long been the backbone of who we are as Nova Scotians, and I am delighted that this award helps to recognize the spirit embodied in such a diverse array of towns, villages and neighbourhoods."

Up to four Nova Scotian communities receive the award each year. Recipients are chosen by a selection committee based on community applications that best fit the award criteria. Communities selected promote citizen engagement, civic pride and a positive outlook on the future.

The Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage will administer the award for this first time this year. The United Way had administered the program since its inception in 2008.

"I want to thank the United way for its ongoing support during this transition," said Communities, Culture and Heritage Minister Leonard Preyra. "The province will continue the great work of the United Way recognizing and celebrating communities provincewide."

Communities selected for the Lieutenant Governor's Community Spirit Award will be honoured at a community celebration. Lt.-Gov. Grant will attend, present a hand-crafted award that stays in the community and unveil a sign for display. Communities will also receive $1,500 to put towards their celebrations.

"Receiving the Lieutenant Governor's Community Spirit Award last year confirmed what our community of Membertou has known for many years," said Membertou Chief Terry Paul. "The Mi'kmaq culture and heritage that is practiced every day in our communities, is integral to the history of our province. Having the opportunity to share it with the rest of Nova Scotia, through this award, made myself, our community and the other Mi'kmaq communities proud to be Mi'kmaq."

The deadline for nominations is Friday, May 17. For award applications and more information, visit http://communityspiritaward.ca.