Veterans Affairs Canada

PREVOST, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - June 20, 2008) - With Government of Canada support, youth in Prévost will celebrate National Aboriginal Day with a Powwow that, in part, recognizes the 90th anniversary of the end of the First World War.

The Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, announced today a contribution to Batshaw Youth and Family Centers.

Funding of up to $2,200, provided through Veterans Affairs Canada's Community Engagement Partnership Fund, will support the commemorative aspects of this 11th annual Powwow on June 21. The Powwow will place special emphasis on the 90th anniversary of the end of the First World War and on the contribution First Nations have made to the Canadian Armed Forces, Rangers and Peacekeepers. First Nations Veterans will recite prayers around a red maple tree, which was planted to commemorate the Year of the Veteran in 2005. Youth from the Batshaw campus will host Veterans and active duty members, and recite poems in their honour.

"This ceremony is a great opportunity for youth from Batshaw to interact with Veterans and current Canadian Forces members," said Minister Thompson. "The planning committee has organized an event that will bring together the whole community to celebrate freedom and First Nations traditions."

The Community Engagement Partnership Fund provides funding to non-profit groups, educational institutions and other organizations delivering remembrance activities and events. Administered through Veterans Affairs Canada's Canada Remembers program, contributions are made throughout the year and encompass both national and community-based projects.

To learn more about the Community Engagement Partnership Fund call 1-877-604-8489 or visit www.vac-acc.gc.ca.