Gatineau, Quebec – Department of Canadian Heritage

Preparations for Canada Day 2014 are well under way, and Canadian Heritage is currently looking for enthusiastic individuals who would like to lend a hand during the celebrations. This is a great opportunity for Canadians to get involved in one of the many milestones leading up to Canada’s 150th birthday in 2017.

Every year, more than 500 volunteers help to welcome the hundreds of thousands of visitors who take part in the festivities organized on July 1st in Canada’s Capital Region at three official sites: Parliament Hill and Major’s Hill Park in Ottawa, and Jacques-Cartier Park in Gatineau. 

Volunteers fulfill a variety of tasks, such as distributing Canadian flags, assisting individuals with special needs, 
lending a hand at the various activities, and acting as information officers.

Individuals interested in helping out and experiencing Canada Day in an exciting new way can contact the Canadian Heritage Volunteer Centre by telephone at 819-956-2626 or by email at benevoles.volunteers@pch.gc.ca.

Quick Facts

• On July 1, 2014, Canada celebrates its 147th birthday.
• On average, the Canada Day sites in the Capital welcome 350,000 individuals, of which one third are tourists.
• In 2011, Canada Day-related spending generated a total of $222 million of economic activity in Ontario and Quebec and $93 million within Canada’s Capital Region.
• Manulife is the official sponsor of the Canada Day Volunteer Program.

Quotes

“Canada Day in the Capital is an amazing experience and provides the perfect opportunity to showcase some of the qualities that make this country Strong, Proud, and Free. I encourage Canadians to share their pride this July 1st by volunteering and contributing to the success of the celebration.”

—The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages

“There are many ways to get involved on Canada Day and since 2009, volunteering is my way to celebrate. I am thrilled to contribute to this celebration of our Canadian identity and our achievements.”

—Suzanne Sarault, Canada Day volunteer

src:news.gc.ca