In January, 2011,  Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced the creation of the Prime Minister鈥檚 Volunteer Awards to recognize the enormous contribution volunteers make to Canada.

The awards recognize the exceptional contributions of volunteers, local businesses and innovative not-for-profit organizations in improving the well-being of families and their communities.

Nominations are now being sought.

The deadline for nominations is midnight Eastern time on Sept. 9. Nominations submitted by mail must be postmarked no later than the deadline.

All nominees must have contributed to addressing social challenges in their community.

Political and public advocacy work are excluded.

All award recipients will receive a medal, a Prime Minister鈥檚 Volunteer Awards pin and a letter of congratulations from the prime minister.

In addition, regional award recipients will be eligible to identify a not-for-profit organization to receive a $5,000 grant. National award recipients will be eligible to identify a not-for-profit organization to receive a $10,000 grant.

In order to be eligible to receive a grant, grant recipients must be not-for-profit organizations, including registered charities, helping improve life outcomes for people with disabilities, children and families, and other vulnerable populations.

For further information call 1-877-825-0434 or send an e-mail to the Prime Minister鈥檚 Volunteer Awards at info-pmva@hrsdc.gc.ca.