Françoise Sigur-Cloutier uses her love of the French language and Francophone culture to benefit the Franco-Saskatchewanian community. In addition to having a hand in cultivating French-language literature, she was involved in developing her province during her five-year tenure as president of the Assemblée communautaire fransaskoise, working to protect, defend and promote Francophone rights. She was awarded the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers in 2016.

“It was with much surprise and a flurry of emotions that I learned – on my birthday – that I was the recipient of this medal. I felt very honoured by this recognition, moved by this honour, and grateful to the person who had so generously nominated me. The presentation of this medal by the Governor General at the Chan Center in Vancouver was a kind of fairy tale where I was publicly celebrated and recognized in front of my family, friends and community. I ‘floated’ for several days … when I think about it I still float even if my modesty took a hit!”

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The Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers recognizes the exceptional volunteer achievements of Canadians from across the country in a wide range of fields. As an official Canadian honour, the Medal for Volunteers incorporates and replaces the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award. The Medal builds on the legacy and spirit of the Caring Canadian Award by honouring the dedication and commitment of volunteers. The RHF is raising $5 million towards the SMV endowment, ensuring that the Office of the Governor General will have the ability to honour many volunteers every year, in communities across the country. Learn more about the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers, and nominate someone you know at caring.gg.ca.