Residents encouraged to nominate local volunteers for Canada’s Volunteer Awards
With the nomination deadline fast approaching, residents in towns and cities across the province are reminded to recognize the volunteers, organizations and leaders in their communities who make a difference every day by submitting nominations for the 2026 Canada’s Volunteer Awards.
The Canada’s Volunteer Awards (CVA) program, administered by the Government of Canada, celebrates individuals, businesses and organizations whose volunteer efforts strengthen communities and improve the lives of others.
Nominations for this year’s awards close on June 17, 2026 leaving less than two weeks for residents to put forward a deserving candidate from their community.
In a release issued on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, the CVA say the volunteer awards offers an annual opportunity for the country to shine a spotlight on the countless volunteers whose contributions often take place behind the scenes but have a significant impact on their communities nonetheless.
“We all know people who give of their time, their energy and their hearts to help improve the quality of life of their neighbours and their communities,” the release stated. “Help us recognize their strengths and their volunteer spirits by nominating them for Canada’s Volunteer Awards.”
The program presents 21 awards annually, including the prestigious Thérèse Casgrain Lifelong Achievement Award, which recognizes an individual whose lifelong commitment to volunteering has created lasting change. In addition, 20 regional awards are presented across the country to honour outstanding volunteer contributions in a variety of categories, including:
- Emerging Leaders – youth aged 18 to 30 years
- Community Leaders – an individual or a group of individuals
- Business Leaders or Social Enterprises who show proof of social responsibility in their practices, or
- Social Innovators – non-profit organizations, social enterprises, or registered charities.
Residents interested in submitting a nomination can find information about eligibility requirements, award categories and the nomination process through the Canada’s Volunteer Awards website.