Have you heard the $50,000 story about the charitable sector? Neither have we… YET!

Submissions are now being accepted for Imagine Canada and The Muttart Foundation's national contest: Students (Verb) Charities

Post-secondary students are being challenged to create campaigns that speak about the collective contribution of charities. First prize $50,000!

OTTAWA, Jan. 19, 2012 /CNW/ - When you think of the charitable sector, you probably picture individual charitable organizations and the excellent work they do.  Or, perhaps larger sub-groups come to mind such as the health sector or the arts community. What about the bigger picture? How does the charitable sector as a whole ensure, improve and reflect the quality of life in Canada and around the world?

The charitable sector is massive and multifaceted. Consequently, its collective impact may not be evident. Students (Verb) Charities is a contest that asks students at publicly funded post-secondary institutions to produce a public awareness campaign that talks about the depth, scope and reach that the sector has as a whole. Contestants can submit campaigns in any form or medium. There is a total of $100,000 in cash prizes including a $50,000 first prize for the top entry, a second prize of $25,000, and a third prize of $10,000.

Bob Wyatt, Executive Director of the Muttart Foundation is looking forward to seeing how students use their creativity to reflect the contributions of the charitable sector.  "We have deliberately kept the format and medium of the contest flexible because we want young people to be as creative as possible in helping us take a fresh look at ourselves."

Marcel Lauzière, President and CEO of Imagine Canada added, "This is an opportunity for young people to become more engaged with charities. In addition to looking forward to seeing the campaigns, we also look forward to connecting with the next generation of leaders in our sector."

Students (Verb) Charities
Show us (y)our stuff!                                                                                                                                               
Visit www.studentsverbcharities.ca for contest rules and regular updates.

Imagine Canada is a national charitable organization whose cause is Canada's charities and nonprofits. We strengthen the sector's collective voice, serve as a forum and meeting place, and provide a supportive environment for organizations to build stronger communities. www.imaginecanada.ca

The Muttart Foundation considers a robust charitable sector as central to a strong, healthy society. Through their work charities build community and address key social issues and concerns. www.muttart.org

For interviews with Marcel Lauzière or Bob Wyatt or for more contest information contact: