Released on May 8, 2009
First Nations and Métis Relations Minister June Draude on behalf of Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer, today presented a Spirit Award For Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) to Porcupine Opportunities Program Inc. of Porcupine Plain.
"The province applauds the accomplishments of Porcupine Opportunities Program Inc. in developing a range of quality programs and services that respond to the needs of people with intellectual disabilities in their community," Draude said. "Porcupine Opportunities Program has been a valuable partner of the Ministry of Social Services for nearly 25 years, and is a worthy recipient of this award for its ongoing service to people with disabilities."
The Spirit Award honours CBOs that deliver programs and services on behalf of the Ministry of Social Services or its agency, the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation. The award celebrates the contributions of these human-service CBOs to the well-being of Saskatchewan people. The CBOs that deliver these services are all non-profit organizations operated by volunteer boards which share the common goal of improving the lives of people and families in their communities.
CBOs that received funding within the past two years from the ministry or the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation are eligible for the award. Funded CBOs include those that provide services and supports for people with disabilities, those that support children, youth, and families facing challenges or crisis, as well as housing authorities that deliver housing programs and services for lower-income people and families.
Porcupine Opportunities Program Inc. has been serving Porcupine Plain and surrounding communities since 1973. Currently, this non-profit organization serves more than 30 people with intellectual disabilities, delivering a variety of programs and services - including day programs, community employment opportunities, a workshop and activity centre, a satellite day program in the Town of Hudson Bay, enhanced supportive living services and residential group homes.
This year's other recipients of a Spirit Award For Community-Based Organizations were:
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lloydminster (Children, Youth and Families category); and
- River Bank Development Corporation, Prince Albert (Housing category).
Draude presented representatives of Porcupine Opportunities Program Inc. with their Spirit Award, including a cheque for $1,000 that will go toward the education or training of the organization's staff.
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For more information, contact:
Brian Miller
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0531
Email: brian.miller3@gov.sk.ca