Throughout the year, there are proclamations made almost every day. In the next while you can see, Neighbour Day, Victims and Survivors of Crime Week, and Intergenerational Day Canada. And this week is National Volunteer Week, April 23-29. While there are no official events planned, the idea is to remind people of others out in the community and to perhaps take a small step to be welcoming and inclusive to those they come into contact with - or more specifically to reach out to people of all ages.
May 7 is Neighbour Day.
This day is designated as Neighbour Day, a day to promote and create safe, welcoming neighbourhood communities by increasing inclusion and reducing isolation through neighbour to neighbour connections. In a 2012 Vancouver Foundation survey it was reported that 46 per cent of people seldom see their neighbours.
May 28 to June 3 is Victims and Survivors of Crime Week. The week offers an opportunity to raise awareness about victims issues; and about the services and laws in place to help victims, survivors and their families.
While nothing generally happens during those weeks or days, Oak Bay Mayor Nils Jensen, said it is a tradition carried out in most municipalities.
“Sometimes we help with some activities,” said Jensen, “It’s helping raise awareness, and sometimes it’s to honour someone, like Mel Cooper Day. It’s done out of respect.”
With Victims and Survivors of Crime Week, people are encouraged to be aware of the issues faced by victims and survivors of crime and discuss the impact of crime.
June 1 is proclaimed to be Intergenerational Day Canada. The intent is to focus on the profound positive influence intergenerational connecting has on eliminating isolation and loneliness with the intent of moving towards a healthy, all-age friendly community. It is an official reminder, a yearly invitation for every citizen to take one small respectful step to bridge generations with the community.