HispanicBusiness

Italo Tiezzi

Ottawa, Ontario

For over 50 years, Italo Tiezzi has been at the heart of his Italian-Canadian community. He helped found and lead the Dante Alighieri Society of Ottawa, in support of Italian culture. He was president of an Italian business association and a key figure in the success of Ottawa's Italian Week festival. He has also been engaged in the wider community, as a founder of the Ottawa Junior Humane Society, a supporter of the Ottawa University Heart Institute and a director of the Kidney Foundation of Canada.

Olwyn Walter

Halifax, Nova Scotia

In 2006, while serving as the vice-chair of the board of directors of the Children's Bridge Foundation, Olwyn Walter heard the story of a nine-year-old boy from Vietnam who was suffering from a life-threatening facial tumour. Mrs. Walter opened her home to the boy so he could receive treatments in North America. Over the two-and-a-half years he stayed with her family, Mrs. Walter worked tirelessly to raise funds for his medical expenses, support his education, and accompany him during his 26 medical treatments. Now 16, and back in Vietnam, the boy is healthy and happy, thanks in great part to her efforts.

THE GOVERNOR GENERAL'S CARING CANADIAN AWARD

When the Right Honourable Romeo LeBlanc became Governor General of Canada, he was determined to thank the thousands of caring people who give so much to their fellow citizens-the unsung heroes who volunteer their time, their efforts and a great deal of their lives to helping others, and who ask for nothing in return. In 1995, the Governor General's Caring Canadian Award was created.

The award recognizes individuals who volunteer their time to help others and to build a smarter and more caring nation. The award also highlights the fine example set by these volunteers, whose compassion and engagement are so much a part of our Canadian character.

Eligibility criteria

The award recognizes living Canadians and permanent residents who have made a significant, sustained, unpaid contribution to their community, in Canada or abroad.

Nomination process

Nominations can be made directly through the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General. They will be received by the Chancellery of Honours and reviewed by the advisory committee which will make recommendations to the governor general. There is no deadline for submissions. Nominations are accepted throughout the year.

If you know a friend, neighbour or member of your community who deserves this unique award, please share their stories by completing a nomination form at www.gg.ca/caring.

Description of the award

The award's emblem represents Canadians who selflessly give of their time and energy to others. The maple leaf symbolizes the people of Canada and their spirit; the heart depicts the open-heartedness of volunteers; and the outstretched hand portrays boundless generosity. The blue and gold colours, which appear on the viceregal flag, indicate the award's connection with the governor general.

The Caring Canadian Award consists of a certificate and a lapel pin presented to recipients by the governor general or by lieutenant governors, territorial commissioners, mayors or partner organizations. Where this is impossible or if a recipient requests an early presentation for personal reasons, the award will be sent by mail.



Contacts:
Rideau Hall Press Office
Marie-Pierre Belanger
613-998-9166
marie-pierre.belanger@gg.ca