Canada's national wish granter thanks thousands of volunteers for helping create the magic of wishes

    Local hero from St. John's is awarded Foundation's national volunteer of
    the year

    PICKERING, ON, April 30 /CNW/ - Every day in Canada wishes come true for
more than two Canadian children, each diagnosed with a high-risk
life-threatening illness, due in part to the incredible efforts of volunteers
who support and contribute to The Children's Wish Foundation of Canada. In
celebration of their efforts, the Foundation is saluting the efforts of these
local heroes - from communities large and small and from coast to coast to
coast - who significantly impact the lives of children and families.
    "Each of our volunteers is a hero. It's our privilege to be able to work
with so many Canadians, who through their efforts, allows us to what we do
best - that is granting wishes for the children and their families who have
endured so much," says Chris Kotsopoulos, Executive Director, The Children's
Wish Foundation of Canada. "By working together with dedicated local
volunteers, Children's Wish is able to help provide these wonderful kids with
the opportunity to realize one of their most heartfelt wishes."
    It is because of the contributions made everyday by these individuals,
that Children's Wish is pleased to announce this year's recipient of the Laura
Cole Volunteer of the Year Award is Elmer Harris from St. John's, NL. Now in
its fifth year, the Laura Cole Volunteer of the Year Award was established in
recognition of the Foundation's founder Laura Cole. The award is given
annually to an individual who exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and
dedication to the mission of The Children's Wish Foundation of Canada.
    A volunteer of the Foundation, on both a national and provincial level
for more than 22 years, Elmer has exemplified what it is to be a Wish
volunteer. As the founder of the Newfoundland and Labrador chapter, Elmer has
played an integral role in strategic development of the national organization
as well as the implementation of fundraising tools and policies that have
contributed to the organization's growth, recruitment and success, not only in
the province but across Canada.
    "It is truly a privilege to be able to recognize and work with volunteers
like Elmer whose talents and accomplishments are as diverse as the communities
they serve," adds Kotsopoulos. "National Volunteer Week allows us as Canadians
to celebrate the incredible contributions made by individuals of all ages who
provide exceptional leadership and guidance as well as contribute to such an
important cause - and ultimately help create a better Canada."
    Mr. Harris will be formally honoured for his contributions at a
celebration on June 7 which is being held in Quebec City at the Foundation's
Annual General Meeting.

    Established in 1984, The Children's Wish Foundation of Canada is a
national non-profit organization dedicated to fulfilling a favorite wish for
children diagnosed with high-risk, life-threatening illnesses. Since its
inception, Children's Wish has granted almost 14,000 wishes for children and
their families and fulfills approximately 900 wishes annually - granting
nearly three wishes everyday - each being an individual adventure, carefully
structured to meet the needs of that particular child. For information on
Children's Wish, log onto www.childrenswish.ca.

For further information: and interview opportunities: George James,
Communications Director, The Children's Wish Foundation of Canada, o: (905)
839-4566, ext. 240, c: [phone], [e-mail]