The purpose of Canada's Citation for Citizenship awards is to "recognize volunteer work in support of the citizenship values of freedom, justice, equalityand respect for diversity." It honours Canadians who have made outstanding contributions to helping immigrants and refugees settle into Canadian society.

The recipients of the 2008 Citation for Citizenship awards were recently announced by Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney at a special citizenship ceremony. Eleven winners were chosen by a panel of citizenship judges after a national call for nominations in 2008.

"This award recognizes their accomplishments as well as what they represent as citizens of Canada - humanity, compassion, and concern for others," stated Minister Kenney.

Additionally, six winners of the 2009 Skills for Change Pioneers Awards were recently announced. These awards, launched in 1993, recognize Canadian immigrants who have overcome adversity.

Their stories were shared with immigrants and refugees at the award ceremony in Toronto this week.