Canada’s Youth will be contributing citizens who are confident and rich in character; they will be unlimited in their capabilities and achieve empowering careers.

This is the vision that I presented at the Ontario Public Service 2007 Spirit Program launch. I was asked by both the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General and Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services to be the lead guest speaker for the 2007 Spirit Program, focusing on the issue of Developing Youth.

I presented my vision for Canada’s youth which was inspired by my work in youth programs development and I spoke about how professionals can improve the lives of youth through volunteering.

The Spirit program encourages and recognizes Ontario Public Service employees who better their communities through volunteering. Every year, Spirit selects an area of focus; examples have included literacy, tsunami relief and Habitat for Humanity.

The enthusiasm that OPS employees demonstrate towards helping their communities is an important lesson for community organizations.

Organizations should think of donors as more than just sources of money. Volunteering is a powerful form of donation, which can result in successful fundraising. Volunteers can contribute their professional knowledge in areas such as advising your leadership team, guest speaking, research, public relations, event planning, etc. Sometimes, instead of fundraising, a more practical solution is to recruit volunteers who can provide the professional skills that your organization is missing.

Should you wish a copy of my presentation or speech, I can be contacted here.